Kazia Therapeutics Licenses AI-Driven SETDB1 Drug Discovery Platform from QIMR Berghofer

Australian biotech Kazia Therapeutics has in-licensed a first-in-class SETDB1-targeted epigenetic drug development platform from QIMR Berghofer, announced in a press release. The platform uses an AI-integrated epigenetic drug discovery engine to generate and optimize candidate molecules, including the lead compound MSETC.

MSETC is described as a highly selective bicyclic peptide designed to target a disease-associated nuclear SETDB1 complex. The compound aims to restore immune signaling in tumors resistant to immunotherapies such as checkpoint inhibitors. Preclinical studies indicate that inhibiting SETDB1 can enhance interferon signaling, antigen presentation, and tumor immune recognition.

Kazia plans to advance the SETDB1 program through preclinical development toward IND-enabling studies, with a combined estimated cost of $6 million over 18 months alongside its PD-L1 degrader platform. The company expects a substantial portion of this expenditure to qualify for the Australian R&D tax incentive.

Under the licensing agreement, Kazia has obtained global rights to the platform and lead candidate, with an upfront payment of about $1.39 million and a tiered revenue-sharing structure, but no milestone obligations.