ProBioGen Partners with MAPP BIOPHARMACEUTICAL, INC. for Groundbreaking Development of Afucosylated Antibody Against Marburg Virus Disease Using GlymaxX Technology

ProBioGen, a leading CDMO of innovative solutions and services for biopharmaceutical development, is pleased to announce the execution of services and license agreements with MAPP BIOPHARMACEUTICAL, INC. to develop a cell line for an afucosylated antibody targeting Marburg virus (MARV) infection. This collaborative effort will leverage ProBioGen's cutting-edge GlymaxX® technology to enhance the therapeutic potential of the antibody by adjusting the afucosylation levels.

 

Under the terms of the agreement, ProBioGen will contribute its expertise in cell line development including its proprietary DirectedLuck® transposase system and GlymaxX technology to enhance antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) of the molecule. ADCC enhancement is a key strategy for improving therapeutic antibody-drug efficacy. This collaboration aims to address the urgent need for advanced therapies against MARV infections, a severe and often fatal illness caused by the Marburg virus.

"We are excited to collaborate with MAPP BIOPHARMACEUTICAL, INC. in the development of a cell line for an afucosylated antibody targeting MARV infection, utilizing our GlymaxX technology," said Volker Sandig, CSO at ProBioGen. "This again confirms the versatility of our technology which is broadly used for cancer therapeutics but can also make a meaningful impact in the fight against life-threatening infections."

Marburg virus poses a significant public health threat, and the development of an antibody represents a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention. By reducing fucose levels in the antibody's glycan structure, GlymaxX technology enhances its effector functions, potentially improving the overall efficacy of the antibody in combating MARV infection.

MAPP BIOPHARMACEUTICAL, INC., a prominent player in the infectious disease space of the biopharmaceutical industry, brings valuable expertise and resources to the collaboration. Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) has awarded funding to MAPP to advance the development of MBP091, a single monoclonal antibody therapeutic to treat Marburg virus disease (MVD). This would be the first therapy to specifically treat MARV infections.

"We are pleased to partner with ProBioGen to develop a cell line to produce our afucosylated antibody to treat MARV infection," commented Dr. Ronald Aimes, VP, Development - Marburg at MAPP BIOPHARMACEUTICAL, INC. "This collaboration exemplifies our shared commitment to addressing unmet medical needs and underscores the potential of combining our capabilities to deliver innovative and impactful biopharmaceutical solutions for infectious diseases."

The collaboration between ProBioGen and MAPP BIOPHARMACEUTICAL, INC. represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of novel therapies against infectious diseases. Both companies remain dedicated to advancing biopharmaceutical development and contributing to the global effort to improve healthcare outcomes. Financial details of the service and non-exclusive GlymaxX license were not disclosed.

This project has been funded in whole or in part with federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response; Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, under contract number 75A50122C00076.

 

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