DSM Biologics, a business unit of DSM Pharmaceutical Products, today announced the signing of a contract with NKT Therapeutics, Inc. based in Waltham, Mass, USA, the biotechnology company that focuses on developing therapeutics based on unique immune cells called natural killer T (NKT) cells.
The contract covers the process development and cGMP manufacturing by DSM of their lead product iNKT mAb. NKT cells are a central part of the human immune system. Upon exposure to microbial and viral pathogens NKT cells secrete high levels of specific cytokines which stimulate the immune system to eliminate pathogens.
Karen King, President of DSM Biologics, stated, "We are delighted to be working with NKT Therapeutics, based in the US, from our European biomanufacturing operations located in Groningen, the Netherlands. We are truly honored to be supporting their first clinical program from our cGMP operations." With a range of mammalian bioreactor sizes from 50 liters up to 1000 liters and, process and analytical development capabilities, DSM offers development and production flexibility combined with economy."
Dr. Robert Mashal, President & CEO, NKT Therapeutics, commented, "For NKT, advancing our lead program into cGMP manufacturing marks a significant milestone for the company, and we are certain we have found the right partner in DSM." NKT's Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Alem Truneh, added, "Manipulation of NKT cells is an exciting new therapeutic strategy. Following on the heels of our successful studies in primates, we are on track to file an IND next year. DSM provides us with numerous options and flexibility in our manufacturing programs."
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