Swiss Rockets AG and Lonza have entered a collaboration to support the clinical supply and manufacturing of bimiralisib, an investigational oncology drug candidate developed by Torqur AG, a subsidiary of Swiss Rockets.
Bimiralisib is a potent oral dual-acting PI3K and mTOR inhibitor. The drug candidate is under Phase II clinical evaluation for actinic keratosis (AK), a common pre-cancerous skin condition linked to chronic sun exposure and a precursor to cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Torqur expects bimiralisib to enter Phase III clinical trials for AK in Q1 2027.
Under the agreement, Lonza will deliver technology transfer, process optimization, and cGMP manufacturing services. Production will take place at Lonza’s highly potent active pharmaceutical ingredient (HPAPI) facilities in Nansha, China, and Visp, Switzerland.
“We are pleased to support Torqur in advancing the development of bimiralisib by leveraging our highly potent small-molecule manufacturing expertise, global facility network and cGMP manufacturing capabilities," remarked Christian Seufert, Head of Advanced Synthesis, EVP and EC Member at Lonza. "This collaboration reflects Lonza’s commitment to enabling our customers to progress promising therapies through robust, high-quality manufacturing solutions. The collaboration with Torqur is an example of how Lonza supports biotechs in advancing innovation that has the potential to make a real difference for patients.”
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AK remains frequently underdiagnosed despite its prevalence, which increases the need for effective treatment options. Torqur positions bimiralisib as its lead candidate within a broader pipeline of dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitors targeting oncology and precancerous dermatologic indications.
“Collaborating with Lonza provides us with a highly experienced manufacturing partner that shares our commitment to advancing our program and bringing bimiralisib to patients," commented Dr. Vladimir Cmiljanovic, CEO of Swiss Rockets. "Lonza’s technical expertise and collaborative approach strengthen the foundation needed to advance bimiralisib into late-stage clinical development. We remain focused on delivering a novel therapeutic option for patients across oncology indications, including actinic keratosis.”
Swiss Rockets operates as an incubator and accelerator focused on oncology and precision healthcare. Its portfolio spans radioligand therapies, small molecules, and live-attenuated virus vaccines across preclinical and clinical stages.
Torqur develops dual-acting PI3K/mTOR and mTOR-selective inhibitors, with a focus on targeted therapies in oncodermatology and oncology.
This article is based on a press release issued by Lonza.
