Genmab announces HuMax-CD32b pre-clinical program

Jan 7 2008

Genmab A/S has announced a new pre-clinical antibody program called HuMax-CD32b. This fully human IgG1,k antibody targets the CD32b receptor found on immune cells and hematological tumors.

HuMax-CD32b may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia, small lymphocytic lymphoma, Burkitt's lymphoma, follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

The lead candidate for HuMax-CD32b was selected from a panel of over 60 antibodies based on its excellent selectivity and binding ability for the CD32b target and potent triggering of the immune system killing mechanism antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). The antibody was highly effective in suppressing tumor growth in in vivo mouse tumor models in which tumor growth was monitored by highly sensitive bioluminescence imaging.

In animal models, HuMax-CD32b has been shown to induce impressive anti-tumor responses. The CD32b receptor has an inhibitory role on immune cells and blockade of CD32b has been documented to strongly potentiate the therapeutic effects of other anti-tumor antibodies. An antibody targeting CD32b may thus be attractive for combination therapy with other antibodies.

"We believe HuMax-CD32b has great potential as a cancer therapeutic, both because of its impressive anti-tumor activity, and the potential for combination with other therapeutic antibodies, such as antibodies directed to CD20 or CD38." said Prof. Jan G. J. van de Winkel, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer at Genmab A/S.

About Genmab A/S

Genmab is a leading international biotechnology company focused on developing fully human antibody therapeutics for unmet medical needs. Using unique, cutting-edge antibody technology, Genmab's world class discovery and development teams have created and developed an extensive pipeline of products for potential treatment of a variety of diseases including cancer and autoimmune disorders. As Genmab advances towards a commercial future, we remain committed to our primary goal of improving the lives of patients who are in urgent need of new treatment options.