Merck KGaA Partners with Porton Pharma for Next-Gen ADC Platform Development

German pharmaceutical giant Merck KGaA (ETR: MRK) has entered into a strategic partnership with China-based Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) Porton Pharma Solutions’ Shanghai unit. The collaboration aims to develop a next-generation integrated antibody drug conjugate (ADC) platform technology, marking a significant step in the advancement of oncology treatments.

Scope of the Partnership
The partnership will encompass a comprehensive range of development activities, including cell line development, culture media, perfusion processes, chromatography, ultrafiltration, virus removal, ADC conjugate reaction process, and cost analysis of the ADC process platform. This holistic approach is designed to optimize the ADC development process and enhance the efficiency and efficacy of these complex therapies.

Porton Pharma’s Shanghai Facility
Porton Pharma Solutions boasts a state-of-the-art 7,000 sq.m plant in Shanghai, which commenced operations last month. This facility will play a pivotal role in the partnership, providing the necessary infrastructure and expertise to drive the development of innovative ADC technologies.

Future Outlook
This strategic alliance between Merck KGaA and Porton Pharma Solutions is expected to accelerate the development of novel ADCs, which are a critical component in the fight against cancer. By combining the strengths of both companies, the partnership is poised to make significant contributions to the field of oncology and improve patient outcomes globally.-Fineline Info & Tech

Fineline Info & Tech