Genmab's Humax-CD20 cancer antibody shows promising results in primate study

HuMax-CD20 depleted B-cells, the target in non-Hodgkins lymphoma, for longer than rituximab

30-Jun-2003

Summary: Genmab's HuMax-CD20 antibody effective in depleting B-cells, the target for treating non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, in primate study.

Genmab A/S announced today that HuMax-CD20 was effective in depleting B-cells, the target for treating non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, in both blood and lymph nodes in a pre-clinical primate study. Furthermore, in a study up to 92 days, HuMax-CD20 depleted these B-cells for a period of time that was four times longer compared to the effect from rituximab, a marketed anti-cancer treatment against the same target. No adverse effects were observed during the study.

HuMax-CD20 is currently undergoing manufacturing development in preparation for clinical trials.

Professor Jan van de Winkel, Chief Scientific Officer of Genmab, will present the HuMax-CD20 data at the 20 th International Conference on Advances in the Application of Monoclonal Antibodies in Clinical Oncology in Latchi Cyprus held between June 30-July 2, 2003.

About the study Cynomolgus monkeys were treated with a total of four doses of HuMax-CD20 or rituximab of 5mg/kg, 25 mg/kg or 50 mg/kg given over four consecutive days. The animals have been observed over a 92 day period. "The HuMax-CD20 animal data is extremely positive and emphasizes the potential of this product to help cancer patients," said Lisa N. Drakeman, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Genmab. "We look forward to being able to start clinical trials with HuMax-CD20."

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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

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