Generex Biotechnology Corporation's Antigen Express subsidiary announced a research collaboration with Transgene S.A., Strasbourg, France to assess the Ii suppression technology in preclinical cancer models.

Transgene will insert Antigen Express Ii suppression gene in its adenovirus based cancer immunotherapy products and evaluate the constructs in several animal models. The program is expected to proceed for up to 12 months after which time the companies have agreed to review the data in the view of further collaboration.

Robert E. Humphreys, founder of Antigen Express, said, "Transgene has recognized expertise in the molecular biology of gene delivery and expression, as well as in the evaluation of immunologic approaches to the treatment of cancer."

This approach to the treatment of cancer involves converting cancer cells in vivo into antigen presenting cells capable of inducing a potent anti-tumor CD4+ T-helper cell immune response. For an improved anti cancer immune response, it combines the enhancement of antigen presentation via the Ii suppression technology and the local expression of immunostimulatory cytokines generated by Transgene products. In addition, the technology is also being used in the development of DNA vaccines for HIV and other diseases.