Press Release
MP and Schering collaborate in oncology
DARPins: Targeted Protein Therapeutics Beyond Antibodies
DARPins form a novel and unique class of protein therapeutics. They combine many of the desired properties of antibody therapeutics with many of the beneficial characteristics of small molecules. DARPins have the following attributes:
- High potency
- High robustness
- Allow for fast generation of multi-specific DARPins
- High specificity/Low toxicity
- Better tissue penetration than antibody therapeutics
This new class of molecules opens the door for transforming new drug formats.
Molecular Partners has established a robust platform to discover and develop DARPin-based product candidates targeting indications in ophthalmology, oncology and immunology. The most advanced DARPin product candidate, called abicipar pegol, is out-licensed to Allergan and is expected to enter Phase III clinical studies for the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration in the second quarter of 2015 and is currently in Phase II clinical development for the treatment of diabetic macular edema. The other DARPin product candidates in the pipeline are currently being developed by Molecular Partners either on its own or together with renowned pharmaceutical companies through strategic partnerships.
Molecular Partners has the exclusive license to develop DARPin-based product candidates. The vision of Molecular Partners is to pioneer the development of DARPins to create multi-benefit therapeutics transforming the lives of patients.
