Molecular Partners cooperates with Eckert & Ziegler on radio-DARPin therapeutics

(CONNECT) Molecular Partners AG from Schlieren is working together with Eckert & Ziegler from Berlin on the development and production of radio-DARPin therapeutics, as detailed in a press release. These are radiolabeled therapeutics that are to be developed on the basis of Molecular Partners' DARPin technology. DARPins (Designed Ankyrin Repeat Proteins) are artificial proteins that can recognize and bind antigens. Eckert & Ziegler specializes in isotope technology components for nuclear medicine and radiotherapy.

As part of the collaboration, Eckert & Ziegler will support the development of radio DARPins based on actinium-225 and lutetium-177 in its laboratories. These are to be used in cancer therapy. "We are delighted to be working with Eckert & Ziegler, a global leader in the manufacture of radiopharmaceuticals," said Alexander Zürcher, COO of Molecular Partners, in the press release. "This agreement will expand the potential of radio-DARPins as vectors for the precise delivery of therapeutic alpha-emitting isotopes to tumors."

In a press release from Eckert & Ziegler, its CEO Harald Hasselmann describes "supporting highly innovative companies such as Molecular Partners in the development of their promising technology platforms" as an "important goal" of his company.

Molecular Partners, based in the Bio-Technopark Schlieren-Zurich, was founded in 2004 by researchers from the University of Zurich (UZH). ce/jh