ProBioGen and Inhibrx signed a multi-programme license deal on ADCC-enhanced therapeutic antibodies. ProBioGen’s GlymaxX ADCC enhancement technology and mammalian cell line development and manufacturing services will be used to advance therapeutic antibodies generated by Inhibrx’s discovery platforms.

The agreement initially covers development services for several undisclosed first-in-class and best-in-class antibodies with enhanced ADCC potency, as well as cell line and process development for other recombinant therapeutic proteins. ProBioGen will receive both milestone-dependent license fees, as well as fee-for-service-based payments for its technologies and efforts. Further financial details were not disclosed.

"We are impressed with Inhibrx’s discovery platforms and their target selection expertise. This effort is a perfect match for the two companies’ complementary core expertise, enabling industrial discovery and development of a range of innovative therapeutic proteins” explained ProBioGen’s chief scientific officer, Dr Volker Sandig. Dr Wieland Wolf, CEO added, “Inhibrx’s company culture is very similar to ours, pragmatic, technology and science-driven with the aim to leverage proprietary technologies and expertise. We are looking very much forward working together in this spirit.”

Mark Lappe, CEO of Inhibrx said, “We were searching for one company with proven cell line development, process and cell line based ADCC enhancement technologies. ProBioGen’s time tested expertise and innovative culture have created what we consider to be the perfect combination of technologies for deriving the most value and competitive edge for our therapeutic antibody and biologic programmes.”