Compugen Ltd. has licensed the Selexis SUREtechnology Platform for use in generating high-performance research cell banks (RCBs). Compugen will leverage Selexis’ mammalian cell line-based protein expression platform to develop antibody-based therapeutics targeting certain cancers, including to support further advancement of COM701. 
 
Compugen’s lead immuno-oncology candidate, COM701, is a humanized hybridoma antibody that binds to PVRIG, a novel B7/CD28-like immune checkpoint target candidate discovered by Compugen, blocking its interaction with PVRL2. The candidate is currently in preclinical development with an investigational new drug (IND) application filing with the U.S. FDA expected in 1Q18.
 
“Our agreement with Compugen is indicative of Selexis’ strength in protein expression and our leadership in bringing an innovative technology solution to our partners,” said Yemi Onakunle, Ph.D., Selexis vice president, business development and licensing. “It is rewarding for us to play a role in the important research and development efforts ongoing at Compugen and we value the opportunity to continue to play a role in enabling our partners to bring much needed treatment options to patients.” 
 
“The Selexis SUREtechnology Platform enabled us to quickly generate a high-expressing cell line to support COM701 development activities,” said John Hunter, Ph.D., Compugen vice president of antibody R&D. “We look forward to working with the Selexis team as we advance future programs into the clinic.”