• Vaborem^®, a patented combination of meropenem and vaborbactam, is expected to address the rising prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) infections in China
• The deal brings together Melinta's innovation, Menarini's cross-regional expertise in registration and marketing this asset, and SciClone's development and commercial presence in China
• Menarini will receive a total payment of up to €115 million, which includes milestone payments and tiered royalty on net sales, during the term

Vaborem^® is a fixed dose combination of a carbapenem and a novel boronic acid β-lactamase inhibitor of class A and class C serine β-lactamases. It protects meropenem from degradation by serine carbapenemases, restoring its activity against carbapenem-resistant strains and has been specifically developed to inhibit CRE including the commonly found Klebsiella pneumoniae Carbapenemase (KPC)-producing bacteria.

CRE infections, which have become a serious concern worldwide, have been listed by the World Health Organization as one of the three critical pathogens in need of new antimicrobial options. These infections are currently associated with high rates of mortality as well as increased length of hospital stay and costs. According to China Antimicrobial Surveillance Network (CHINET), the incidence of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) infections has experienced a steep increase in the last 10 years. As of now, there are few drugs available against CRE infections, and existing treatments are often associated with significant toxicities and suboptimal pharmacokinetic parameters.

"We are excited to partner with Menarini to develop and commercialize Vaborem^® in China and bring better treatment options to patients with severe ailments. This partnership recognizes SciClone's capabilities in product development and commercialization and also helps us consolidate our strategic focus on infectious diseases. We are keen on working with overseas partners to introduce international and advanced treatment options in China and to provide patients around the world with our own high-quality innovative drugs," said Hong Zhao, President and Chief Executive Officer of SciClone.

Under the License Agreement, Menarini will receive payments including milestones and tiered royalty on sales. SciClone will be responsible for conducting and funding local clinical development as well as commercialization of Vaborem®. To facilitate access to patients in China, SciClone will conduct local clinical trials and pursue applicable regulatory filings approvals in China. 

"This is an important step for Menarini to further provide patients with treatments for life-threatening conditions. The collaboration with SciClone will facilitate greater access to anti-infective medicines and address the rising threat of anti-microbial resistance. It also reflects the patient-centric goals shared with Melinta," said Maurizio Luongo, Chief Executive Officer of Menarini Asia-Pacific. "Menarini will continue to enhance its offerings by sourcing innovative assets and to expand its geographical coverage by both direct presence and external partnerships," he added.

Menarini acquired the exclusive rights from Melinta in 2018 to market and sell Vaborem® (meropenem and vaborbactam) in 68 countries in Europe, the Commonwealth of Independent States and Asia-Pacific. 

"Our mission is to provide innovative therapies to people impacted by acute and life-threatening illnesses. We are pleased that our first-in-class product, through our collaboration with Menarini, is well positioned to help make a difference for those patients in China who need our therapy," said Christine Ann Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer of Melinta Therapeutics