The collaboration exploits Helix's innovative single-domain antibody based CAR-T and ProMab's proprietary vector designs, antibodies library and cell based production know-how.
The immediate focus will involve preclinical work in support of a new investigational drug (IND) application of a CAR-T for haematological malignancies.
Additional cell-based therapies will also be considered by mutual agreement of the parties. Such therapies may include combination of Helix's newest DOS47 technology for alkalisation of tumour microenvironment thus resulting in enhancement of cell-based immuno-therapies.
As part of the collaboration agreement, Helix retains an exclusive license for commercialisation of any drug product candidate developed alone or in combination with DOS47 and a non-exclusive license to any technology developed in the licensed territories, which include Europe and Canada.
Helix will be responsible for clinical development in the licensed territories and ProMab will develop in the other territories.
Helix will pay certain milestone and royalties to product licensed from ProMab. ProMab's use of any Helix technologies is subject to a separate agreement, which is to be negotiated.
“We are very excited to work with ProMab," said Heman Chao, CEO at Helix Biopharma. “This collaboration will accelerate Helix's cell therapy development program and bring additional value to Helix's shareholders.”
