Biodexa Secures Exclusive License for Otsuka’s OPB-171775 Molecular Glue
Published: 01 Apr 2026
Author: Precedence Research
Biodexa Pharmaceuticals PLC, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative therapies, announced it has secured an exclusive license from Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd for OPB-171775, a novel molecular glue being developed for the treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). The compound, which will be designated MTX240 in Biodexa’s pipeline, may also have potential applications in other indications.
Stephen Stamp, CEO of Biodexa, highlighted that MTX240 represents an exciting opportunity for the company. Its unique molecular glue mechanism distinguishes it from current standard treatments and could benefit a wide range of GIST patients, including those with TKI-resistant disease. He added that MTX240 fits strategically within Biodexa’s growing GI/oncology portfolio, which also includes the ongoing Phase 3 development of eRapa for Familial Adenomatous Polyposis.
Unique Mechanism of Action: Molecular Glue
Molecular glue technology represents a novel approach in oncology, inducing targeted protein interactions and offering a mechanism of action distinct from conventional kinase inhibitors, particularly for rare cancers. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are primarily driven by activating mutations in the KIT receptor tyrosine kinase. While tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as imatinib, sunitinib, and regorafenib have improved outcomes for GIST patients, many eventually develop resistance due to secondary KIT mutations or activation of alternative signaling pathways.
MTX240 acts as a molecular glue by bringing together two intracellular proteins, such as PDE3a and SLFN12, that are specifically co-expressed in GIST cells, forming a stable complex. This interaction stabilizes SLFN12, which triggers RNase-mediated apoptosis in GIST cells through a pathway independent of KIT signaling. By activating this alternative mechanism, MTX240 is designed to overcome TKI resistance, offering potential clinical benefits to a significant portion of GIST patients, including those who no longer respond to conventional kinase inhibitors.
According to Precedence Research, the molecular glues market size was USD 2.65 billion in 2025 and is projected to increase from USD 3.07 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 11.59 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 15.90% from 2026 to 2035, driven by a rise in chronic diseases, increasing application of molecular glues in drug discovery, and partnerships between pharma and biotech companies.
Licensing and Collaboration Agreement
Under the terms of the agreement, Biodexa has secured exclusive global rights to develop and commercialize MTX240, except in Japan, where Otsuka retains its rights. The deal includes an upfront payment to Otsuka, along with additional milestone payments tied to development and regulatory progress. Additionally, Biodexa will pay tiered royalties in the mid-single-digit range on net sales of MTX240.