Biond Biologics Partners with GIBF to Enhance Oncology Innovations in China
Biond Biologics Partners with GIBF for Cancer Therapy Development
Biond Biologics Ltd., a private biotechnology firm focused on cutting-edge immunotherapies for cancer and immune-related diseases, has announced a significant milestone in its journey. In collaboration with the Guangzhou-Israel Biotechnology Fund (GIBF), they have closed an $8 million investment aimed at advancing their innovative oncology pipeline in China. This partnership establishes a joint venture that emphasizes accelerating development processes for their leading cancer treatments, showcasing a commitment to tapping into the rapidly evolving biotech landscape in China.
The newly formed joint venture targets the enhancement of Biond’s leading oncology programs, particularly the highly anticipated BND-67 and BND-22. BND-67 is a groundbreaking therapy that addresses CD28 shedding, offering a new realm of possibilities in T-cell modulation for cancer treatment. This innovative therapy aims to redefine immune responses, establishing an enhanced effector T-cell activity while selectively inhibiting regulatory T-cells, potentially driving robust anti-tumor responses.
On the other hand, BND-22 serves as a Phase 2 anti-ILT2 antibody, designed to re-establish anti-tumor immune functions by focusing on the ILT2-HLA-G axis. Encouraging results have been noted in patients with difficult-to-treat cancers that typically show minimal responsiveness to conventional immunotherapy approaches, laying a promising foundation for ongoing clinical evaluations at prestigious institutions like the MD Anderson Cancer Center.
According to Ori Shilo, CFO and Co-Founder of Biond Biologics, this strategic alliance signifies an important step in enhancing their global pipeline. The integration of GIBF’s deep insights and expertise in the Chinese bioscience ecosystem will expedite the clinical execution of Biond’s programs, enabling exploration of additional combination therapies and maximizing their pipeline potential in one of the world’s largest markets. Biond’s focused ambition is thus paired with a strong localized approach through this collaboration.
Avner Lushi, Managing Partner of GIBF, echoed this sentiment, praising Biond Biologics for developing differentiated therapies targeting unique immune pathways. GIBF recognizes the immense potential of the Chinese biotech market, which has rapidly advanced as a hub for innovation backed by substantial quality clinical developments and solid scientific foundations. The fund aims to employ its unique investment model not just for the optimization of Biond's assets but also to create significant value for stakeholders and patients alike in the coming years.
Both Biond Biologics and GIBF are also keen on further developing collaborations throughout Asia to expand Biond’s expertise and market presence. This ambition aligns with the overarching goal of enhancing global access to transformative cancer therapies.
Biond Biologics, established in 2016 by a team of experienced scientists, focuses on pioneering immunotherapies targeting groundbreaking pathways in both innate and adaptive immune systems. With a growing portfolio that includes clinical-stage oncology programs alongside preclinical projects related to immune-mediated diseases, Biond continues its mission of innovating treatments to meet critical medical needs.
In summary, this partnership between Biond Biologics and GIBF not only highlights a major financial investment but also showcases a significant collaborative effort directed towards revolutionizing oncology treatments while optimizing clinical execution in the dynamic Chinese market. The future looks promising as both entities embark on this ambitious journey to make a meaningful impact in cancer therapy.