ImmunoPrecise Antibodies Ltd., an AI-driven biotherapeutic research and technology company, and Biotheus Inc. (Biotheus), a clinical-stage biotech company dedicated to the discovery and development of biologics for oncology and inflammatory diseases, jointly announce that the two parties have entered into a Material Transfer and Evaluation Agreement (MTEA) pertaining to a Talem therapeutic antibody asset for the development of a bispecific therapy against solid tumors. Under this MTEA, Biotheus will obtain the rights to further evaluate the suitability of Talem’s Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enhanced TATX-20 lead candidate for the development of novel bispecific antibodies for the treatment of hypoxic solid tumors.
Under this agreement, Biotheus will receive a specialized antibody asset from Talem Therapeutics, a subsidiary of ImmunoPrecise Antibodies. Biotheus plans to use this asset in conjunction with its own proprietary technology and binders to develop a new class of cancer-fighting drugs. These innovative therapeutics, known as bispecific antibodies, are designed to simultaneously target two different targets on tumors, specifically those found in oxygen-deprived environments. This approach could potentially lead to breakthrough therapies that address the complex challenges of treating cancer, particularly in difficult-to-target tumor environments. The ultimate goal is to identify the most promising molecule for advancement into clinical trials, potentially accelerating the development of novel cancer treatments.
“We are happy to enter into a collaboration with ImmunoPrecise Antibodies, a leading AI-driven biotech with powerful multi-omics modelling expertise.” stated Xiaolin Liu, Co-founder, Chairman, and CEO of Biotheus. “Biotheus’ broad expertise in antibody discovery and development is powered by our fully integrated capabilities. By virtue of the AI-informed molecules spawned by ImmunoPrecise’s platform, we aim to develop novel bispecific antibodies with first-in-class potential and bring forth breakthrough therapies to cancer patients in the world.”
Dr. Jennifer Bath, CEO of ImmunoPrecise Antibodies, stated: “We’re excited to transfer our AI-enhanced therapeutic antibody asset to Biotheus for bispecific molecule development. This strategic move leverages our cutting-edge technology in antibody discovery and Biotheus’ expertise in bispecific engineering. Our collaboration aims to accelerate the creation of innovative cancer treatments, potentially leading to groundbreaking clinical outcomes. This agreement not only demonstrates the value of our AI-enhanced assets but also sets the stage for a long-term, mutually beneficial partnership that could transform the landscape of cancer therapeutics. We anticipate this collaboration will drive significant value for both companies and, most importantly, for patients in need of advanced treatment options.”
The transfer of this therapeutic asset to Biotheus aims to accelerate the development of targeted therapies that could potentially improve outcomes for patients with solid tumors. Following the transfer, Biotheus will evaluate the TATX-20 lead candidate. If the evaluation proves successful, Biotheus intends to further develop the bispecific molecules, with the objective of creating a clinically successful product that addresses the challenges associated with treating hypoxic solid tumors resistant to current therapies.