BioCentury
ARTICLE | Company News

Wilex unit to use ADC technology for Roche

September 4, 2013 12:39 AM UTC

The Heidelberg Pharma GmbH subsidiary of Wilex AG (Xetra:WL6) will use its antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technology with undisclosed antibodies from Roche (SIX:ROG; OTCQX:RHHBY) to develop antibody-targeted amanitin conjugates (ATACs) for cancer indications. Heidelberg's ADC technology couples antibodies to alpha-amanitin, a bicyclic peptide that is found in the Amanita phalloides mushroom and inhibits RNA polymerase. The company said ATACs have shown activity against tumor cells independent of cell proliferation. Heidelberg will receive undisclosed "regular payments" for granting access to its technology and providing research services. Roche will have the exclusive option to license rights to develop and commercialize the compounds. Heidelberg would be eligible for undisclosed upfront payments plus milestones and royalties for each compound selected by Roche. ...