Qurient (115180.KQ) is moving to commercialize a dual-payload antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) platform globally with Lonza, a global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO).
Qurient said on the 13th that it had signed a joint commercialization agreement with Lonza for a dual-payload ADC platform. Dual-payload ADCs are a next-generation cancer treatment technology that loads two different cytotoxic drugs, or payloads, onto a single antibody, allowing simultaneous attacks on cancer cells through multiple mechanisms. The approach is seen as a way to overcome drug resistance in conventional ADCs and extend the duration of treatment response.
Under the deal, Lonza plans to introduce "SYN-duo CC," a dual-payload platform combining a camptothecin derivative that inhibits topoisomerase I (TOP1) with Qurient's highly selective CDK7 inhibitor. Lonza may also develop new combinations by pairing Qurient's CDK7 inhibitor with other payloads. The company aims to offer ADC developers new options through the platform.
"CDK7 inhibitors hold significant potential as one pillar of next-generation dual-payload ADCs," Qurient CEO Nam Kiyean said. "By combining Qurient's expertise in the CDK7 target with Lonza's proven ADC technology and development capabilities, we have broadened the opportunity to apply CDK7 inhibitor payloads to a wider range of next-generation ADC programs."
Christian Seufert, head of Lonza's advanced synthesis business, said dual-payload ADCs are one of the most promising areas for customers seeking to develop differentiated cancer therapies. "With this agreement, the addition of differentiated CDK7 inhibitor payload technology to Lonza's ADC lineup strengthens our ability to support customers from early-stage technology research through development, manufacturing and commercialization," he said.