ProBioGen has entered into a research license agreement with Heat Biologics for both ProBioGen's DirectedLuck transposase system and its proprietary suspension HEK293 cell line.
DirectedLuck has reportedly been optimised to recognise specific epigenetic marks. It guides the transgene to regions with highest transcriptional activity. This ensures high protein expression and maximal stability, ProBioGen says. The company also says its system is also compatible with additional genetic elements in standard expression vector design and can be used with any host cell line.
The HEK293 cell line has been optimised for manufacture of proteins and viral vectors and is distinguished by robust growths in chemically defined medium in suspension culture, the company claims, making it suitable for production in large bioreactors.
Dr Volker Sandig, CSO at ProBioGen commented: "We are delighted to sign this research agreement with Heat Biologics for two of our technologies. This confirms the value of our patent portfolio, which we have been continuously expanding for years. It is great to see the application of these technologies beyond protein and virus production now also in allogeneic cell therapy."