MorphoSys AG announced the achievement of a first milestone in its therapeutic antibody cooperation with Centocor Inc. In achieving the milestone MorphoSys delivered several antibodies against an undisclosed target molecule provided by Centocor. The antibodies generated by MorphoSys were systematically optimized in order to meet nine different pre-defined success criteria. MorphoSys receives an undisclosed payment from Centocor for attaining the milestone.

In December 2000, MorphoSys and Centocor, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, signed a collaboration for the development of fully human antibodies in a wide range of therapeutic indications. The collaboration includes an option for the development of antibodies against up to 30 different target molecules from Centocor. The collaboration also grants Centocor the use of the MorphoSys HuCAL technology in its own research programs. In achieving the current milestone, MorphoSys delivered several antibodies against the target molecule from Centocor, fulfilling nine different pre-agreed success criteria. The antibodies were systematically engineered to meet all of the required attributes.

"Our accomplishment today once again highlights MorphoSys´ skills in developing novel cutting-edge antibody drugs, tailored to the needs of its partners," commented Dr. Thomas von Rüden, Chief Scientific Officer, MorphoSys AG.