NEW YORK CITY (dpa-AFX) - BioRap Technologies Ltd, the technology transfer company of the Rappaport Institute for Biomedical Research at the Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, has entered into a research collaboration, option and license agreement with Pfizer Inc. (PFE) that aims to further develop a certain monoclonal antibody into potential new treatment options for a number of chronic autoimmune diseases.
The collaboration is based on a scientific breakthrough made by Prof. Nathan Karin and his research team, led by Dr. Anunu and Dr. Wildbaum, at the Rappaport Institute. The team developed a novel monoclonal antibody that - when bound with a certain immune checkpoint molecule - drives the activity of regulatory T-cells, a cell type that plays an important role in controlling autoimmunity.
Autoimmune diseases include Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis), Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis.
Under the terms of the agreement, Pfizer has an exclusive option to obtain a license to the monoclonal antibody program. If the option is exercised, Pfizer will be responsible for further development and potential commercialization of any resulting product.
BioRap Technologies is eligible to receive potential milestone-based financial support from Pfizer linked to reaching agreed upon milestones. Biorap will receive an undisclosed upfront payment and royalties on sales from any product that may be successfully commercialized as a result of the collaboration. During the collaboration period, Pfizer will contribute its expertise to the research activities to be led by Professor Karin's team at the Rappaport Institute, together with Biond Biologics, Ltd. (Misgav, Israel) on behalf of BioRap.
Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX