Merck to buy biotech firm Survac to further cancer research

Merck has announced the purchase of Danish biotech firm Survac for €11 million (?7.5 million) subject to relevant regulatory approval.

The acquisition is intended to allow Merck access to new innovations in technology for the treatment of cancer.

Specifically, researchers at Survac have been involved in the development of peptide identification and modification for the creation of therapeutic cancer vaccines.

In trials, the lead candidate was able to generate strong immune response to cancer cells in patients without the need for elaborated delivery technologies or specialised adjuvants.

Survac’s operations will be integrated into Merck, with pre-clinical product research to commence in 2006.

Under the terms of the agreement, all Survac intellectual property including a protein patent portfolio will pass to Merck.

Survac is run in collaboration with leading European academic institutes and clinics on a virtual basis.

© Adfero Ltd