Synthon acquires Syntarga and its Antibody-Drug Conjugate Technology

28-Jun-2011 - Netherlands

Synthon announced its acquisition of Syntarga BV. Syntarga’s activities are focused on the development of innovative chemistries that arm antibodies with a cytotoxic payload - yielding successful antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) products that specifically target and kill cancer cells.

“Through this acquisition we can further strengthen our capabilities in the therapeutic area of oncology,” says Rudy Mareel, CEO of Synthon. “We strongly believe that combining Syntarga’s highly potent cell-killing drugs, releasable linker technologies and linker-drug combinations for conjugation to tumor-specific antibodies with our own expertise and knowledge in small-molecule and monoclonal antibody products will lead to a new generation of effective, targeted medicines in this important therapeutic area.”

"We are delighted that the technology can be further developed under the umbrella of Synthon. I believe that this acquisition will accelerate future patient access to oncology products based on this innovative technology," says Vincent de Groot, CEO of Syntarga.

Antibodies equipped with Syntarga's ADC technology deliver deactivated cytotoxins specifically to a cancer cell. Once in the tumor, the cytotoxins are released from the ADC, regaining their full cytotoxic activity. Because of highly specific targeting, side effects of cancer treatment are potentially reduced.

Financial details on the acquisition will not be disclosed.

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Topic world Antibodies

Antibodies are specialized molecules of our immune system that can specifically recognize and neutralize pathogens or foreign substances. Antibody research in biotech and pharma has recognized this natural defense potential and is working intensively to make it therapeutically useful. From monoclonal antibodies used against cancer or autoimmune diseases to antibody-drug conjugates that specifically transport drugs to disease cells - the possibilities are enormous

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Topic world Antibodies

Antibodies are specialized molecules of our immune system that can specifically recognize and neutralize pathogens or foreign substances. Antibody research in biotech and pharma has recognized this natural defense potential and is working intensively to make it therapeutically useful. From monoclonal antibodies used against cancer or autoimmune diseases to antibody-drug conjugates that specifically transport drugs to disease cells - the possibilities are enormous