Crucell acquires ChromaGenics to strengthen its strategic position in protein production technology

11-Mar-2004

Leiden, The Netherlands. Dutch biotechnology company Crucell N.V. announced that it shall complete the acquisition of the outstanding capital stock of privately held ChromaGenics B.V., a biotechnology company based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. ChromaGenics B.V. was founded by UvA Holding B.V., Dr. Arie Otte, and Dr. Niek Roosdorp as a spin-off company of the University of Amsterdam. It is focused on (epi-)genetic discoveries relevant to recombinant DNA protein production in mammalian cells. Dr. Arie Otte discovered genetic elements (STAR(TM) elements) that are of particular importance to stable and 'high-yield' gene expression. The STAR(TM) technology is particularly useful for the production of recombinant human antibodies. Crucell will make an up front cash payment as well as additional, deferred consideration subject to the achievement of future revenues.

"ChromaGenics' STARä technology involves higher-order gene regulation mechanisms and thereby has the potential to take biopharmaceutical production technology to a higher level of sophistication," says Ronald Brus, Chief Executive Officer of Crucell. "The potentially broad applicability of the STAR(TM) technology may lead to early additional licensing revenues for Crucell." Jaap Goudsmit, Chief Scientific Officer of Crucell, adds "We believe that ChromaGenics' STAR(TM) Technology will reduce the cost of industrial scale production of proteins and antibodies, to levels otherwise difficult to achieve."

Dr. Arie Otte, the discoverer of the STAR(TM) technology (Nature Biotechnology 2003 May, 21) will join Crucell part time as Director Epigenetics Technology, and five of his team will join Crucell fulltime.

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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