Theriva Biologics Secures Funding for Innovative Cancer Therapies
Theriva™ Biologics (NYSE American: TOVX), an innovative clinical-stage company focused on advancing cancer therapies, has made headlines by securing grant funding from the Spanish government's National Knowledge Transfer Program. With a total of €2.28 million, this funding aims to kick off an important project in partnership with Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB). The goal is to enhance Theriva's cutting-edge suspension cell platform that's used for manufacturing adenovirus and adeno-associated virus (AAV) therapies.
Funding Details
Under the terms of the funding award, Theriva will receive €1.33 million as a loan, which will be provided as a lump sum in the fourth quarter, and will be repaid over seven years, starting three years from the award date. Meanwhile, UAB will receive a grant of €0.95 million, disbursed in annual installments across the next three years to support the project further.
Exploring Efficiency with the THERICEL Project
The THERICEL project focuses on assessing the feasibility of using Theriva's exclusive A549 suspension cell platform for the clinical production of adenoviral and AAV therapies. This innovative strategy is anticipated to improve manufacturing efficiency significantly and reduce costs compared to conventional adherent cell platforms. With this funding, Theriva plans to upscale production of VCN-01, its lead oncolytic virus candidate that is currently in Phase 2b clinical trials for treating advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Researchers at UAB will also investigate the viability of this suspension cell line for producing AAV products aimed at gene therapy.
Insights from Theriva’s Leadership
Steven A. Shallcross, the CEO of Theriva Biologics, shared his excitement about receiving this funding, highlighting that it offers crucial financial backing while also validating their therapeutic strategy. “This funding will fast-track the launch of our innovative suspension cell platform, solidifying our leadership in oncolytic virus development,” Shallcross remarked. He also pointed out the importance of collaborating with UAB to meet patients' urgent medical needs.
About Theriva Biologics
Theriva™ Biologics is dedicated to creating therapeutic solutions for cancer and related illnesses, focusing on significant unmet medical demands. Their unique oncolytic adenovirus platform is designed for various delivery methods, including intravenous and intravitreal applications, aiming to kill tumor cells and enhance the effectiveness of co-administered cancer treatments. The primary candidates in their pipeline consist of VCN-01, which selectively targets and destroys tumor cells, along with SYN-004 and SYN-020, which are intended to address the adverse effects of treatments and enhance local gastrointestinal health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the importance of the THERICEL project?
The THERICEL project seeks to enhance the efficiency and lower the costs of manufacturing viral therapies, potentially transforming production techniques within the biopharmaceutical industry.
What is the plan for using the funding?
The funding is intended to scale up Theriva’s innovative suspension cell platform to improve the manufacturing processes for adenoviral and AAV therapies.
Which institution is partnering with Theriva for this initiative?
Theriva is working in collaboration with the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) to develop the suspension cell platform and carry out relevant research.
What notable products are included in Theriva's pipeline?
Key products in their pipeline are VCN-01, an oncolytic adenovirus; SYN-004, designed to safeguard the microbiome; and SYN-020, which targets gastrointestinal disorders.
When can we expect news regarding the THERICEL project?
Updates on the THERICEL project are likely to be provided as Theriva makes progress and begins scaling up operations, particularly after the funding is distributed.
