NEC Bio Therapeutics and AGC Biologics Join Forces to Advance Personalized Cancer Vaccine Production

In a significant development for personalized cancer treatment, NEC Bio Therapeutics and AGC Biologics have announced a collaborative effort to manufacture NECVAX-NEO1, an orally administered bacteria-based DNA vaccine designed to target specific tumor neoantigens in cancer patients. This partnership marks a crucial step forward in the production of tailored cancer treatments, leveraging the unique strengths of both companies in biotechnology and manufacturing.

NECVAX-NEO1, developed by NEC Bio Therapeutics, represents a cutting-edge approach to cancer therapy. The vaccine utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to identify and target tumor neoantigens unique to each patient. This personalized approach offers the potential for more effective and less invasive cancer treatment, as the oral delivery method provides convenience for patients.

The collaboration will see AGC Biologics, a global Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), utilizing its state-of-the-art facility in Heidelberg, Germany, to support the production of NECVAX-NEO1. With nearly four decades of expertise in microbial fermentation, the Heidelberg site is well-equipped to handle the specialized manufacturing requirements of this personalized vaccine.

Dieter Kramer, General Manager of AGC Biologics Heidelberg, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, "Personalized medicines have the potential to innovate how a treatment can address specific traits of a disease in a patient and give them a better quality of life. That is truly a remarkable endeavor, and the Heidelberg site is proud to have this opportunity to help NEC Bio Therapeutics on its mission of combining AI and machine learning with traditional biologics and personalized care."

The partnership is set to begin with a focus on clinical development and GMP-compliant manufacturing in Germany. The strategic positioning of both companies' teams in Heidelberg and Mannheim is expected to foster a collaborative environment crucial for advancing this initiative.

Dr. Heinz Lubenau, CEO of NEC Bio Therapeutics, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, saying, "This partnership represents a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering high-quality, affordable personalized cancer vaccines to patients. This collaboration underscores our dedication to improving global health outcomes in the oncology field."

As NECVAX-NEO1 moves into Phase 1/2 clinical trials scheduled for 2024 and 2025, this partnership between NEC Bio Therapeutics and AGC Biologics is poised to play a crucial role in validating the efficacy and safety of this novel treatment. The collaboration has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment by offering personalized, targeted therapies that could improve outcomes for cancer patients worldwide.

The development of NECVAX-NEO1 and this manufacturing partnership represent a significant step forward in the field of personalized medicine. By combining AI-driven design with advanced manufacturing capabilities, this collaboration aims to make tailored cancer treatments more accessible and effective. As the clinical trials progress, the medical community and cancer patients alike will be watching closely to see how this innovative approach to cancer therapy performs in real-world applications.

For more information about NEC Bio's AI drug development initiatives, visit NEC Bio: AI Drug Development | NEC. To learn more about AGC Biologics and their biopharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities, visit www.agcbio.com.