Calico signs $571 million licensing deal with Mabwell for IL-11 drug

Alphabet-founded biotech Calico Life Sciences has struck an exclusive licensing agreement with Chinese drugmaker Mabwell (SHA: 688062) for investigational therapies aimed at interleukin-11 (IL-11), including a Phase I-stage monoclonal antibody targeting age-related conditions.

Under the deal, Calico is paying $25 million upfront to gain global rights—excluding greater China—to 9MW3811, the lead IL-11 candidate. The agreement could eventually reach $571 million, tied to development and commercial milestones.

The experimental antibody is being tested for its potential in treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other age-associated illnesses. Mabwell has been running Phase I studies in China and Australia, and an active investigational new drug application is already filed with the US regulator. If approved, the asset will advance into early clinical development in the USA.