Elotuzumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds to CS1, a cell-surface glycoprotein that is highly expressed on myeloma cells but minimally expressed on normal human cells. Elotuzumab appears to induce anti-tumor effects primarily through antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity towards myeloma cells.

Preclinical data from our elotuzumab program are suggestive of the antibody’s biologic activity. Our studies to date have shown a reduction of human multiple myeloma xenograft tumors in animal models, and destruction of primary multiple myeloma cells obtained directly from patients. We have conducted extensive analysis of the target for elotuzumab, CS1, which is highly expressed in almost all cases of multiple myeloma independent of stage, cytogenetics or prior therapy.

Elotuzumab is currently in clinical development for multiple myeloma.

We have a worldwide strategic collaboration with Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (BMS) for the joint development, manufacture and commercialization of elotuzumab in multiple myeloma and other potential oncology indications.