SCG, A*STAR'S BTI collaborate for novel antibody development

The collaboration was aimed at infectious diseases and cancer.

Singapore-based SCG Cell Therapy has signed a collaboration agreement with A*STAR's Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI) to advance the development of multi-specific antibodies.

The collaboration will leverage BTI's multi-specific antibody technology platform and SCG's product development expertise for novel therapeutic antibody screening, as well as chemistry, manufacturing, and control (CMC) process development.

These will help discover new treatment candidates for infectious diseases and related cancers, particularly the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human papillomavirus (HPV). Such treatments could complement and augment existing drugs and result in more effective, safe, and affordable treatments for patients.

SCG CEO Frank Wang Shuli said, "The collaboration builds on SCG's strong international network and product development capabilities, and in BTI's in-depth expertise in biotherapeutics technology and manufacturing process development. Together we look forward to accelerating breakthroughs in new antibody-based therapeutics, revolutionising how we treat chronic infections and cancer."

In 2013, five out of the top 10 best-selling drugs were antibody-based. In 2020, the Food and Drug Administration approved 13 biologics or drugs produced from living organisms or their components. Out of 13, 12 were antibody-based, while only one was protein-based.