Bristol Myers Secures COVID-19 Antibody Through Rockefeller University Pact

Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) has struck a deal with Rockefeller University for the global rights to a monoclonal antibody being developed by the university to treat COVID-19.

The antibody is a combination of two drugs that together block the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to neutralize the virus, and preclinical data indicate it could be an effective treatment against the virus’ multiple variants, BMS said.

In January, Rockefeller launched phase 1 trials to evaluate the antibody as both an intravenous and subcutaneous injection and to assess the treatment’s safety profile.

Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed but Rockefeller will receive royalty payments on any future sales.