ThromboGenics completes technology transfer to Bharat Biotech

Belgian biotech company ThromboGenics has successfully completed the technology transfer to Bharat Biotech International, of Hyderabad, India, for the manufacture of THR-100, a novel variant of Recombinant Staphylokinase.

THR-100 is a thrombolytic agent developed for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and other vascular diseases, based on its ability to dissolve blood clots.

In December 2006 ThromboGenics had announced the completion of a license agreement with Bharat Biotech to manufacture, develop and commercialise THR-100 as a replacement for established thrombolytics, such as streptokinase and urokinase, in developing countries. THR-100 has completed Phase II clinical trials in Europe for treatment of AMI, and is expected to enter Phase III in India later this year.

ThromboGenics has completed the successful transfer of its robust, proprietary and scaled-up process for the production of THR-100, a recombinant protein. Bharat Biotech will use its manufacturing capabilities, along with technological expertise acquired from ThromboGenics, to produce clinical-grade material for forthcoming clinical trials. By absorbing the THR-100 manufacturing technology at different scales, while maintaining required yield and purity, Bharat Biotech has demonstrated its ability and capacity to produce this recombinant protein with the desired performance, quality and cost-effectiveness.

"Successful transfer of technology from ThromboGenics to Bharat Biotech is a significant milestone in the development of THR-100 as a novel thrombolytic agent," said Dr Krishna M. Ella, chairman and managing director of Bharat Biotech. "Bharat Biotech has significant expertise in executing technology transfer processes from US and EU companies. We are highly excited about further clinical development of THR-100 and its commercialisation."