The drug substance from UCB, UCB0107, is an anti-tau candidate currently in Phase I clinical studies. Per the agreement, Samsung Biologics will produce the drug candidate while the clinical study is ongoing.
The neurology lead at UCB, Jim Baxter, told us that this partnership was an important component for the development process of the drug candidate as it ensures the consistent supply needed for the program.
UCB, a Belgium-based biopharmaceutical focused on neurology and immunology, developed the drug candidate and has previously worked with Samsung Biologics to develop and manufacture an investigational drug in 2018.
“In progressing our UCB0107 development program, our goal is to develop a novel medicine which delays progression of progressive supranuclear palsy and increases the time where patients can experience the life they want to live,” Baxter told us.
The two companies have signed two sub-agreements as well. The agreements see Samsung Biologics manufacturing UCB’s products currently in clinical development, including therapies for the treatment of myasthenia gravis, psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis.