Xencor has entered into collaboration with Roche to create monoclonal antibodies with greatly enhanced potency.

Roche will use Xencor's XmAb technology on a Roche antibody against a proprietary cancer target. The XmAb technology consists of a suite of engineered antibody Fc domains that can be applied to any antibody to control the recruitment of the immune system's effector functions and to increase antibody-mediated tumour killing.

Under the terms of the agreement, Xencor will receive technology access and license fees, and is eligible to receive additional license fees, milestones and royalties in the event that Roche advances candidates into development.

"We are excited that Roche, with a leading franchise in cancer monoclonal antibodies, will apply our XmAb technology to one of its antibody candidates," Harry Stylli, president and CEO of Xencor said adding, "The XmAb technology can be applied to any antibody in a plug-and-play fashion, thereby creating multiple collaboration and product opportunities. This collaboration with Roche extends our dual business strategy of licensing the XmAb technology for specific targets while retaining rights for the internal development of a portfolio of next-generation antibodies."

XmAb antibodies are produced using conventional expression and manufacturing processes. Xencor has also restored effector functions in aglycosylated antibodies, thereby creating an opportunity to use alternative expression systems with the potential of significantly lower cost of goods.

Xencor, Inc. is a privately held biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of protein therapeutics for the treatment of cancer, inflammation and autoimmune disorders.