This IgM antibody recognizes a unique cell surface marker that is expressed on Q-Cells (neural glial cells). On successful completion of the production, Q Therapeutics will utilize the IgM antibody to manufacture the Q-Cells in accordance with FDA requirements at a cGMP production facility. Q Therapeutics anticipates beginning Phase I trials for the treatment of transverse myelitis, a rapidly paralyzing subset of multiple sclerosis (MS), in 2009.
Deborah Eppstein, president and CEO of Q Therapeutics, said: “Selecting the right partner to manufacture this antibody was a critical decision we faced in preparing for our human clinical trials.”