ImClone licenses VEGFR antibody
Tuesday, 14 October, 2008
US biotech ImClone Systems has selected the human therapeutic antibody IMC-3C5, licensed from Circadian Technologies [ASX: CIR] subsidiary Vegenics, as a pre-clinical development candidate.
The antibody, which neutralises the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR-3), is being investigated as a candidate for oncology indications. ImClone will shortly undertake pre-clinical studies of the candidate.
Scientists from both ImClone, currently being sought for US$6.5 billion by pharma giant Eli Lilly, and Vegenics have already collaborated on research recently published in Nature, showing that VEGFR-3 has a previously unknown role in angiogenesis.
Blocking the receptor was found to have an additive effect in the inhibition of tumour growth in animals by effectively starving the tumour of blood supply.
ImClone has licensed the exclusive rights to develop the antibody, in return for annual fees and royalties on potential future product sales.
Novel antibiotic activates 'suicide' mechanism in superbug
Researchers have discovered a new class of antibiotic that selectively targets Neisseria...
Modifications in the placenta linked to psychiatric disorders
Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression disorder are the neuropsychiatric disorders...
ADHD may be linked with an increased risk of dementia
An adult brain affected by attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) presents modifications...
