US-based Alloy Therapeutics Inc. has announced a strategic partnership with Japan-headquartered Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd (TYO: 4502) to develop Takeda’s proprietary induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived CAR-T cell platform (iCAR-T) and iPSC-derived CAR-NK platform (iCAR-NK). This collaboration aims to bolster the development of key therapies targeting solid and hematological malignancies.
Alloy’s Role in Advancing iCAR-T and iCAR-NK Therapies
Under the terms of the deal, Alloy will obtain co-exclusive rights to commercialize iCAR-T and iCAR-NK products in oncology indications. The company will leverage its unique business model to accelerate the development of these therapies, particularly for the treatment of solid tumors.
Flagship Project and Core Technology
iCAR-T is a flagship project that has graduated from T-CiRA, a decade-long joint research program between Takeda and the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application at Kyoto University (CiRA). The core technology for differentiating iPSC into immune cells originates from the laboratory of CiRA’s Shin Kaneko. iCAR-T has the potential to develop ‘off-the-shelf’ cell therapies, offering enhanced potency and significantly lower manufacturing costs compared to traditional autologous cell therapy.
Potential Impact on Oncology Treatments
The partnership between Alloy Therapeutics and Takeda Pharmaceutical is expected to revolutionize the field of oncology by providing best-in-class performance with ‘off-the-shelf’ cell therapies. This approach has the potential to transform the treatment landscape for patients with solid and hematological malignancies, offering more accessible and cost-effective options.-Fineline Info & Tech
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