I-Mab’s acquisition of Bridge Health Biotech signals a strategic move to solidify its position in the increasingly competitive Claudin 18.2 (CLDN18.2) targeted therapy landscape. By acquiring Bridge Health, I-Mab gains full ownership of the CLDN18.2 parental antibody used in its lead asset, the bispecific antibody givastomig (ABL111). This move eliminates existing royalty obligations and reduces future milestone payments, streamlining the path to commercialization and maximizing potential returns. The acquisition raises a key question: is this a sign of increasing consolidation in the targeted oncology space, driven by the need to secure valuable assets and control development timelines?
This deal is particularly significant given the recent positive Phase 1b data presented at ESMO GI 2025, showcasing an impressive 83% objective response rate (ORR) for givastomig in combination with chemotherapy and nivolumab in first-line metastatic gastric cancer. I-Mab’s enhanced control over the CLDN18.2 parental antibody strengthens its intellectual property position and allows for broader exploration of bispecific and multi-specific applications, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). This positions I-Mab to potentially expand givastomig’s use beyond gastric cancer into other CLDN18.2-expressing solid tumors, a crucial factor for long-term market growth and competitiveness.
The timing of this acquisition aligns with a broader trend of biotech companies seeking to bolster their pipelines and platforms through strategic M&A. Smaller biotechs, particularly those with promising early-stage assets, are attractive targets for larger players looking to capitalize on innovative therapies. This deal also underscores the increasing importance of CLDN18.2 as a therapeutic target in oncology. Several companies are actively developing CLDN18.2-directed therapies, creating a competitive landscape where securing key intellectual property and optimizing development strategies are paramount. For I-Mab, owning the parental antibody offers a distinct advantage in this race.
The implications of this acquisition extend beyond I-Mab’s internal strategy. It could influence how other companies approach the development and commercialization of targeted oncology therapies, particularly in the bispecific antibody space. The move also has implications for patients, potentially leading to faster development and broader access to promising new treatments for various CLDN18.2-positive cancers. Furthermore, the elimination of royalties and reduced milestone payments may allow I-Mab to offer more competitive pricing, potentially influencing payer decisions and market access dynamics.
Looking ahead, the success of this acquisition hinges on the continued positive clinical development of givastomig and its potential expansion into other indications. The anticipated topline readout from the Phase 1b dose expansion study in Q1 2026 will be a critical inflection point, offering further insights into givastomig’s efficacy and safety profile. Will this acquisition ultimately position I-Mab as a leader in the CLDN18.2-targeted therapy space, or will the competitive landscape and evolving clinical data reshape the market in unforeseen ways? The industry will be watching closely.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
