Octapharma first recombinant FVIII therapy discussed by experts

Octapharma has revealed that it is working to produce the first recombinant FVIII therapy produced from a human cell line, and has discussed the issue with experts at a recent convergence.

Speaking at the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) Biennial Congress – which was attended by approximately 7,500 representatives from the field – the firm discussed its intentions to tackle the major risk associated with hemophilia A therapy and anti-factor VIII (FVIII) antibodies, also known as inhibitors.

Inhibitory antibodies, it was noted, are responsible for complications such as uncontrolled hemorrhage and joint damage.

Vice-chairman of Octapharma Kim Bjornstrup stated: “Octapharma is focused on introducing innovative development strategies that will help improve patient quality of life by finding an effective treatment and developing products to overcome this obstacle.”

Last year, Octapharma signed an agreement to acquire 33 plasma centres from International BioResources, which saw the latter firm charged with the development of the facilities and their 800 employees.