HepeX-B is a combination of two fully human monoclonal antibodies that target the hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface. The product, which has been granted orphan drug status in both the US and the European Union, has been under evaluation for the prevention of HBV re-infection in liver transplant patients.
In September 2005, Xoma and Cubist signed a letter agreement under which Xoma’s extensive antibody development and manufacturing capabilities were to be used to develop new processes to manufacture HepeX-B.
The two companies have now begun discussions to consider other development options for the drug candidate.