IONTAS, a provider of antibody discovery and optimization of human monoclonal antibody libraries, has formed an agreement with Teva Pharmaceuticals to apply its technologies and know-how to the optimization of human antibodies for use as biotherapeutics.
 
IONTAS will initially apply its proprietary technologies to provide Teva with a panel of optimized antibodies against a defined target. Teva will have the option to enter into further optimization programs in the future. The agreement also includes options for the screening of biophysical properties suitable for developable antibodies.
 
“Our experience in both antibody discovery and optimization enables us to generate antibodies that meet the stringent characteristics required by our partners and the selection of IONTAS by Teva is a validation of this know-how and expertise,” said John McCafferty, founder and chief executive officer, IONTAS. “With our ability to focus on function, affinity, specificity and developability we can generate lead antibodies with lower risk of chemistry, manufacturing and controls issues.”