Abzena plc (LON:ABZA) has signed GMP strategic manufacturing and bioconjugation agreements with Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited (LON:TLX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of diagnostic and therapeutic products.
The AIM-listed life science group said these agreements have a combined value of US$5.9mln and these projects are expected to be substantially completed within a 15-month period.
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Under the terms of the agreements, Abzena will progress two PSMA-targeting monoclonal antibodies for the purposes of targeted treatment of metastatic prostate cancer.
On completion of cell line development, currently being performed by Abzena using its Composite CHO platform, the research cell banks for both antibodies will be transferred to its San Diego facility for further process development, generation of master cell banks and scale-up for manufacturing up to 500L utilising Abzena's recently upgraded biomanufacturing platform.
John Burt, CEO of Abzena, said: "Taking forward another clinical product containing Abzena's intellectual property, including through to GMP manufacturing, demonstrates the scope of Abzena's integrated offering, with all our business areas providing scientific expertise and input as well as use of our proprietary technologies.
He added: "Our upgraded capabilities in San Diego will enable us to quickly scale-up production of this product. It is very pleasing for our technology and expertise to be involved in a project with great potential in such an important disease area."