July 9, 2020 -- AGC Biologics has partnered with clinical-stage biotechnology company Molecular Partners to create a protein therapy against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
The new class of custom-built protein therapies, called Darpin, has antiviral effects. The companies will work together to develop MP0420, a multispecific Darpin anti-COVID-19 program. MP0420 has demonstrated therapeutic effects for existing COVID-19 viral infection in preliminary data, the companies noted.
Through the partnership, AGC Biologics will manufacture MP0420 in 100 liter and 1,000-liter scales. Molecular Partners AG plans to conduct clinical studies using the manufactured protein therapeutics later this year.