The collaboration is expected to create antibody therapeutics with improved biological properties targeting newly discovered membrane antigens.
OncoTherapy Science will employ its technology for identification of the cancer antigens and generation of monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) against those antigens, and BioWa will apply its Potelligent technology to the antibodies for the enhancement of antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).
“We are pleased to be working with OncoTherapy Science,” said Dr Nobuo Hanai, president and CEO of BioWa. “Our partnership with OncoTherapy Science gives us the opportunities to strengthen our portfolio for ADCC-enhanced Mab programs.”
Potelligent technology involves the reduction of the amount of fucose in the carbohydrate structure of an antibody using a proprietary fucosyltransferase-knockout host 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.