Novartis announces new collaboration for antibody research

KaloBios has revealed that Novartis and the Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation (GNF) have both entered into a collaborative project with KaloBios to produce human antibodies targeted.

The collaboration comprises two agreements. Firstly, the completion of milestone payments for the success of an antibody treatment produced by GNF but “humaneered” by KaloBios – that is, the artificial resequencing of animal antibodies into ones fully compatible with humans.

The second part is described as a “broader agreement”, which will involve further research and success fees, as well as milestones and royalties dependent on the success of the drug on completion of clinical trials.

Geoffrey Yarronton, KaloBios’ chief executive, remarked: “We are happy that GNF and Novartis have identified KaloBios as a partner who can help as part of their antibody development engine.”

“In turn, we are committed to helping GNF and Novartis make the best possible human antibody therapeutics,” he added.

KaloBios has two drugs in late stage development: KB001, a treatment for Pseudomonas lung infections, often found in patients with cystic fibrosis or who are artificially ventilated, and KB002, an autoimmune disease drug used on patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Antibody research companies have proven to be popular investments among the larger pharmaceutical companies. Last month AstraZeneca bought Cambridge Antibody Technology for over 700 million pounds, while Merck bought two antibody research and production companies on the same day, also last month.

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