Extensive licenses for research antibodies and test systems strengthen position in the gene therapy market.
Heidelberg, 12.09.2019 – PROGEN Biotechnik GmbH, established manufacturer of premium research antibodies, has acquired the exclusive rights for adeno-associated virus (AAV) antibodies and test systems from the DKFZ. The licenses include several antibodies and ELISAs that have been developed by scientists of the DKFZ and that - until now - were sold restrictively by PROGEN on a fee basis. The new rights grant the company worldwide exclusive usage of the AAV ELISA technology and AAV antibodies for the development, manufacturing and sales of AAV products. The deal strengthens PROGEN’s position as a pioneer in AAV quality control and paves the way for the expansion of the company’s AAV portfolio.
Altered AAV genomes that serve as ferry for potentially curative DNA sequences play an increasingly important role in research and development of new gene therapy approaches. PROGEN’s AAV antibodies for example are used in the screening of patients for a pre-existing AAV immune response. The ELISA assays allow for the reliable determination of AAV capsid titers in order to enable proper dosage of the therapeutic viral gene vector. PROGEN intends to offer further advanced products that drive progress in AAV gene therapy forward.
For more than 35 years, DKFZ and PROGEN have been partners in the development and commercialization of research antibodies. The complete transfer of usage rights for AAV products to PROGEN is now a logical step in the cooperation. Joint Managing Directors Katja Betts and Maik Lander appreciate the strategic advantages of the AAV licenses. Katja Betts: “The exclusive rights grant PROGEN more freedom to operate in the highly competitive AAV gene therapy research market and create new opportunities in the advancement of our immunochemistry portfolio.” The company aims to expand its leading role in AAV gene therapy quality control and to access new customer groups with its enabling test systems and innovative antibody technologies.
Financial details of the licensing deal were not disclosed.