- ProBioGen will perform cell line development for Spica Therapeutics’ ST101, a first-in-class anti-CD163 monoclonal antibody for oncology.
- The partnership integrates ProBioGen’s CHO.RiGHT® and GlymaxX® technologies to enhance therapeutic performance and support future development milestones.
ProBioGen has entered a collaboration with Spica Therapeutics to support cell line development for ST101, the biotechnology company’s first clinical candidate targeting immunosuppressive tumour-associated macrophages. The agreement outlines how the partners aim to advance Spica’s oncology programme through an integrated development approach.
The collaboration centres on ST101, a first-in-class monoclonal antibody designed to selectively deplete CD163-positive macrophages. Spica has incorporated ProBioGen’s GlymaxX® technology to enhance antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity, aligning with its strategy to remodel the tumour microenvironment and improve patient responses to immunotherapy.
ProBioGen will apply its CHO.RiGHT® expression platform and DirectedLuck® transposase system to develop a high-performing and stable cell line for ST101. “ProBioGen’s CHO.RiGHT® expression platform… is designed to support biologics with high performance, high purity, and robust productivity,” said Dr Gabriele Schneider, Chief Business Officer at ProBioGen.
Spica stated that ProBioGen’s scientific capabilities and collaborative approach will support the advancement of ST101. Dr Hilde Revets, Director of Non-Clinical Development at Spica Therapeutics, said the integration of GlymaxX® technology aligns with the company’s mission to target immunosuppressive macrophage subsets in cancer.
The partnership combines Spica’s macrophage-focused therapeutic innovations with ProBioGen’s experience in biologics development and advanced genetic engineering. The companies said this foundation will support ST101 as it progresses toward future development milestones, reinforcing the importance of integrated expertise in biologics and contract manufacturing.
