Algeta and Ablynx collaborate on tumor-targeting Nanobodies

Norway-based Algeta (OSE: ALGETA) and Belgian firm Ablynx (Euronext Brussels: ABLX) have entered a research collaboration to evaluate a novel targeted thorium conjugate (TTC) based on combining Algeta's proprietary thorium-227 alpha-pharmaceutical payload with Nanobodies generated using Ablynx' proprietary technology platform.

Under the terms of the accord, Ablynx will provide access to novel Nanobodies against a specific, undisclosed target and Algeta will provide access to chelation and conjugation technologies, as well as to its alpha-emitter thorium-227. Both companies will contribute resources towards the collaboration, which is expected to last for up to a year initially with the option for extension thereafter. No further terms have been disclosed.

Thomas Ramdahl, executive vice president and chief technology officer of Algeta, said: "The collaboration with Ablynx, the fifth TTC program to be disclosed by Algeta, is designed to evaluate the potential of a Nanobody to act as the targeting molecule for the alpha-pharmaceutical payload, thorium-227. This payload has the potential to provide higher potency and more effective delivery over other therapeutic payloads, with the further advantage that there are no known cellular resistance mechanisms to the cell killing properties of alpha particles."