Global healthcare leader Merck, Sharp & Dohme (MSD) (NYSE: MRK) has secured a strategic acquisition of Abceutics, a preclinical biopharmaceutical startup focused on optimizing antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). The financial details of the transaction remain undisclosed. Abceutics has developed a series of payload-binding selectivity enhancers (PBSEs) designed to increase the safety and efficacy of ADCs by minimizing their impact on healthy cells .
The innovative PBSEs work by sequestering detached payload molecules from ADCs, reducing their effects outside tumor cells. This approach has the potential to significantly improve treatment safety for patients with various cancers. The technology could position Merck at the forefront of ADC development, offering a new generation of targeted cancer therapies .
David Weinstock, MD Ph.D., vice president of oncology discovery at Merck Research Laboratories, commented on the acquisition, highlighting Abceutics’ progress in translating their novel concept into a series of compelling candidates. He expressed excitement about further evaluating the potential of this innovative approach in clinical settings .
This acquisition follows Merck’s ongoing commitment to advancing cancer research and developing cutting-edge therapies. With Abceutics’ technology, Merck is well-positioned to enhance the selectivity and efficacy of its ADCs, offering hope to patients with PIK3CA-mutated, HR-positive, HER2-negative, locally advanced, or metastatic breast cancer .- Flcube.com
