Abmaxis and MaimoniDex to develop arthritis drug

[Guest guest]

Biotechnology companies Abmaxis and MaimoniDex RA are to jointly develop a

therapeutic human monoclonal antibody for the treatment of rheumatoid

arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

http://www.pharmaceutical-business-review.com/article_news.asp?guid=3E779626-A72\

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Based on its discovery of a disease-causing molecule found only in the

joints of RA patients, MaimoniDex has developed a murine monoclonal antibody

that has shown bioactivities both in vitro and in vivo. Using its unique

antibody engineering technology, Abmaxis will humanize and optimize the

murine antibody to develop a drug candidate suitable for potential

therapeutic use.

Under the terms of the agreement, MaimoniDex will pay Abmaxis an upfront

technology license fee and Abmaxis is also entitled to receive future

milestone payments and royalties on product sales.

" Working with Abmaxis, a specialist in antibody humanization and

optimization with an excellent track record of successful partnerships, will

enable the production of a commercially viable humanized monoclonal antibody

for treating rheumatoid arthritis, " commented Dr Itshak Golan, president and

CEO of MaimoniDex.