Human Genome Sciences Inc has discovered and developed a human monoclonal antibody drug, ABthrax, that is effective in protecting against anthrax in multiple experimental models. HGSI plans to file an Investigational New Drug application in the near future, seeking clearance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to begin clinical trials in the US to evaluate the safety, tolerability and pharmacology of ABthrax in healthy adults.

Cambridge Antibody Technology (CAT) confirms that the ABthrax antibody was isolated and developed by HGSI from libraries it has licensed to HGSI.

Peter Chambre, CAT's Chief Executive Officer, comments "We are delighted with the success that HGSI is having in working with the libraries we licensed to them. ABthrax is the fourth human monoclonal antibody to come from CAT's collaboration with HGSI and we continue to be pleased with the productivity of this relationship."

CAT has already received a licence fee for the antibody and is entitled to receive clinical development milestones and royalties on product sales from HGSI.