The Potelligent technology will be used in researching and developing select MedImmune antibodies for potential therapeutic applications that require enhancement of antibody- dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).
Under the terms of the agreement, BioWa will provide MedImmune with non- exclusive commercial rights to use the technology to enhance ADCC in developing antibodies for multiple targets. In return, BioWa will receive technology access fees, and may receive milestone payments and royalties on products developed by MedImmune. Additional terms were not disclosed.
ADCC activity is an important function of the human immune system, whereby immune cells can kill target cells, e.g. cancer cells.
Potelligent technology involves the reduction of the amount of fucose in the carbohydrate structure of an antibody using a proprietary fucosyltransferase-knockout CHO cell line as a production cell. Research shows that Potelligent technology significantly enhances ADCC activity of an antibody in vitro, thereby increasing the potency and efficacy of such antibody in vivo.
Dr Nobuo Hanai, BioWa president and CEO said: “We believe that this collaboration with MedImmune highlights the potential advantages of our ADCC-enhancing technology and furthers BioWa’s goal to bring about safe and more effective treatments for cancer and other life-threatening and debilitating diseases.”