Vaccinex and Biocon to co-develop at least four therapeutic antibody products

Nov 19 2004

Vaccinex and Biocon Limited have announced a broad strategic partnership to discover and co-develop at least four therapeutic antibody products.

The collaboration combines Vaccinex's unique capabilities to discover fully human monoclonal antibodies using its proprietary antibody discovery technology and Biocon's proven expertise in clinical research and biologics manufacturing. The parties will jointly identify promising antibody candidates and move them rapidly into clinical development, focusing on antibodies directed to cancer, inflammation and autoimmune disease. As part of the collaboration, Biocon will also make an equity investment in Vaccinex.

Announcing the partnership, Ms. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairman and Managing Director, Biocon Limited said, "We are delighted to announce this partnership as Vaccinex has a strong discovery-led platform that will be beneficial to Biocon. This partnership further reiterates Biocon's commitment to providing biotechnology solutions to worldwide disease populations."

Maurice Zauderer, Ph.D., President and CEO of Vaccinex, stated, "We are very pleased to enter into this partnership with Biocon, the leading biotechnology company in India. By combining our respective skills and knowledge, this collaboration will allow us to accelerate introduction of new, high value therapeutic antibody products in both India and Western markets."

Vaccinex also accepted the nomination of Dr. Bala Manian, the eminent California scientist entrepreneur, as Biocon's nominee to the Vaccinex Board of Directors. This will take effect once regulatory procedures are completed.

http://www.vaccinex.com, http://www.biocon.com/