Abzena, a leading end-to-end integrated Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) specializing in complex biologics and bioconjugates, announced that Orion has obtained an exclusive commercial license for one of Abzena’s monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting a cancer with high unmet clinical need. This agreement will further strengthen Orion’s robust oncology-focused research and development (R&D) pipeline.

The antibody was designed and developed at Abzena’s Cambridge, UK, early-phase R&D facility using the company’s proprietary Composite Human Antibody (CHAb) technology. This innovation was part of Abzena’s integrated developability platform, which enables the selection of superior lead candidates by assessing critical parameters such as functionality, safety, and manufacturability. Through this approach, Abzena’s scientists identified a lead antibody optimized to minimize risks that could affect downstream development or clinical outcomes.

Leveraging Abzena’s AbZelectPRO cell line development (CLD) platform, the team generated a highly stable and productive manufacturing cell line to support efficient and scalable antibody production.

Campbell Bunce, Chief Scientific Officer at Abzena, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Orion on the design and development of our CHAb-engineered monoclonal antibody to advance their oncology R&D pipeline. By combining our integrated developability approach with the AbZelectPRO platform, we created a de-risked lead antibody that provides Orion with the best possible foundation for clinical success.”

Antti Haapalinna, Vice President, External Science and Partnering, R&D, Orion Corporation, added: “We are very satisfied with the excellent and transparent collaboration with Abzena and the strong results achieved through our joint antibody program.”

With more than two decades of experience in antibody discovery, development, and manufacturing, Abzena supports programs from its Cambridge, UK, and San Diego, CA, USA facilities. The company’s U.S. operations also conduct downstream process development and GMP manufacturing at scales of up to 2,000 liters, ensuring a seamless path from early discovery through clinical supply.