As biotech firms worldwide race to translate science into viable treatments by aligning with manufacturing heavyweights, Torqur AG has partnered with Lonza to secure clinical supply of its lead drug candidate, bimiralisib -- all for a promising skin cancer treatment.

The agreement marks a critical step forward for Torqur’s investigational therapy, currently in Phase II trials for actinic keratosis (AK)—a widespread but often overlooked pre-cancerous skin condition linked to prolonged sun exposure and a leading precursor to squamous cell carcinoma.

Bimiralisib, a dual-acting PI3K and mTOR inhibitor, has primarily been developed for oncology but is now showing promise in dermatology. With AK frequently underdiagnosed despite its prevalence, the need for effective treatments is growing more urgent.

Under the deal, Lonza will take on technology transfer, process optimization, and cGMP manufacturing, leveraging its global network and expertise in highly potent compounds. Production will span facilities in Nansha, China, and Visp, Switzerland—key hubs in Lonza’s advanced manufacturing footprint.

Christian Seufert, Head of Advanced Synthesis, EVP and EC Member, Lonza, commented: “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.

"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.”

The partnership signals more than just production support—it positions bimiralisib for a potential leap into late-stage development. Torqur aims to begin Phase III trials for AK as early as Q1 2027.

Dr. Vladimir Cmiljanovic, CEO of Swiss Rockets AG, added: “Collaborating with Lonza provides us with a highly experienced manufacturing partner that shares our commitment to advancing our program and bringing bimiralisib to patients. 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.”

Torqur, a subsidiary of Swiss Rockets, is building a pipeline of targeted therapies focused on oncology and oncodermatology. With bimiralisib leading the charge, the company is betting big on its dual-pathway inhibition strategy to tackle both cancer and pre-cancerous conditions.