ROCKVILLE, MD, USA I May 3, 2013 I Emergent BioSolutions Inc. (EBS) today announced that it presented preclinical data on its lead bispecific ADAPTIRTM (Modular Protein Technology) molecule, ES414, at the 9th Annual Protein and Antibody Engineering Summit (PEGS), currently underway in Boston, MA. ES414 is being developed as a potential therapeutic for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Emergent recently presented pharmacokinetic and tolerability results at the American Association for Cancer Research annual meeting in Washington, D.C.

The ES414 molecule selectively binds to the T cell receptor on cytotoxic T cells and Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen (PSMA), an antigen commonly found on prostate cancer cells. In preclinical studies, ES414 has been shown to redirect T-cell cytotoxicity (RTCC) towards prostate cancer cells expressing PSMA.

The poster, “Tolerability Assessment of ES414, an Anti-PSMA x Anti-CD3 ADAPTIR Molecule,” presented results of preclinical studies demonstrating that ES414 is pharmacologically active, well tolerated in toxicology models at levels well above the expected human dose, possesses suitable characteristics for additional in vivo toxicology studies, and merits further investigation as a potential therapeutic for mCRPC treatment.

“The ES414 product candidate is a unique molecule developed from our ADAPTIR technology platform. The preclinical data are encouraging and the molecule has a number of advantages; specifically, activity at very low doses, minimal cytokine release on binding to target and T cells, and a long half-life. Additionally, we have a defined, scalable manufacturing process in place for ES414 to supply future clinical demands. The manufacturing process is fairly standard and is similar to that for making monoclonal antibodies. We look forward to filing an Investigational New Drug application next year,” said W. James Jackson, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer at Emergent BioSolutions.

About Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men with approximately 230,000 new cases annually in the United States. Although screening, radiation, surgery and hormone ablation therapy have greatly improved the detection and treatment of early stage prostate cancer, few options exist to treat metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer.

About the ADAPTIR™ Platform

ADAPTIR bispecific proteins are modular, single chain polypeptides that comprise two separate binding domains, a hinge segment, and an effector domain (huFc). They have a differentiated structure from monoclonal antibodies and can generate a unique signaling response. Some ADAPTIR molecules, like ES414, may mediate T-cell cytotoxicity by redirecting T cells against tumor cells. In addition, other ADAPTIR proteins may mediate complement dependent cytotoxicity and Fc dependent cytotoxicity, similar to monoclonal antibodies.

About Emergent BioSolutions

Emergent BioSolutions is a specialty pharmaceutical company seeking to protect and enhance life by offering specialized products to healthcare providers and governments to address medical needs and emerging health threats. Additional information may be found at www.emergentbiosolutions.com. Follow us on twitter: @emergentbiosolu.

SOURCE: Emergent BioSolutions