Morphotek in $2.7 million contract to develop monoclonal antibodies
Pennsylvania company to work with the Army’s research institute to develop therapeutic monoclonal antibodies against potential biological warfare threats
Exton, Pennsylvania-based Morphotek has received $2.7 million from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases to develop therapeutic monoclonal antibodies against potential biological warfare threats. Morphotek, the global biologics division of Japanese pharmaceutical manufacturer Eisai, said the funds will be used to advance lead molecules into clinical trials for validation and, ultimately, to seek U.S. regulatory approval.
The company said the development project is in response to government efforts to develop potent therapies capable of protecting the public and military personnel against toxins developed by rogue states or terrorists as bioterrorism weapons. Morphotek said it is collaborating with the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute for Infectious Diseases at Fort Detrick, Maryland.
