Champions Biotechnology, Inc, a company with a predictive preclinical platform aimed at accelerating the development of oncology drugs, and Morphotek, Inc, a subsidiary of Eisai Inc, have established an agreement to test one of Morphotek’s oncology monoclonal antibodies using Champions’ Biomerk Tumorgraft platform.

Under the terms of the agreement, Champions will use its Biomerk Tumorgraft to test the efficacy of Morphotek’s monoclonal antibody as a single agent and in combination with other oncology agents.

“The use of Biomerk Tumorgrafts preclinically may allow for a greater understanding about the potential of these compounds in a clinical setting,” stated Elizabeth Bruckheimer, vice president of scientific operations, Champions Biotechnology, Inc. “These results may be critical in designing clinical trials that will further support the clinical development for Morphotek’s oncology antibody.”

Morphotek develops monoclonal antibodies that target antigens expressed by tumour cells or tumour-associated cells. These unique cancer-specific targets have been demonstrated to be associated with diseased tissues identified by Morphotek or academic collaborators at leading cancer research institutes around the world.

“We are excited to be working with Champions,” said Luigi Grasso, chief scientific officer, Morphotek, Inc. “The Biomerk Tumorgraft platform has the potential to facilitate the prediction of sensitivity and resistance in the clinic and could play an important role in our oncology drug development.”

Champions Biotechnology is engaged in the development of advanced preclinical platforms and tumour specific data to enhance and accelerate the value of oncology drugs.

Morphotek, a subsidiary of Eisai Inc., is a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the development of protein and antibody products through the use of novel and proprietary technologies.