Dong-A ST, under the leadership of Min-Young Kim, announced the acquisition of specialized Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC) company, AbTis, on December 20th, marking a significant stride in bolstering its research and development (R&D) sector.

Dong-A ST has solidified its growth strategy with the acquisition of AbTis, encompassing management rights, third-generation ADC linker platform technology, and pipeline. The anticipated subsidiary status of AbTis under Dong-A ST by year-end heralds a new phase in the company's trajectory.

The company's roadmap post-acquisition involves the advancement of AbTis' ADC anticancer pipeline, leveraging existing technology while venturing into innovative platforms like Antibody Radionuclide Conjugate (ARC), Antibody PROTAC Conjugate (APC), and Immune-Stimulating Antibody Conjugate (ISAC).

Emphasizing synergy across Dong-A ST, ST Pharm, and STgen Bio, the company aims to fortify its ADC platform technology in the medium to long term, extending operations into ADC contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) businesses.

AbTis' hallmark innovation, the 'AbClick' third-generation ADC linker technology, facilitates selective drug conjugation without modifying antibodies. The patented AbClick Pro and Standard platforms enable the regulation of ADC in vivo half-life, a crucial advancement in ADC technology showcased through collaboration with Lonza, a leading ADC-focused CDMO.

Notably, AbTis is actively developing 'AT-211 (development code name),' a Claudin 18.2 ADC candidate targeting gastric and pancreatic cancers, based on the AbClick platform. Anticipated completion of preclinical studies for AT-211 sets the stage for Dong-A ST's objective to initiate clinical phase 1 trial plans (IND) in 2024.

Jae-Hong Park, the Head of R&D (CEO) at Dong-A ST, commented, “In the dynamic landscape of global pharmaceutical competition for ADC technology, Dong-A ST's acquisition of AbTis aims to preempt the market, enhancing our competitive edge.” He added, “Our commitment remains steadfast in elevating Dong-A ST to a global pharmaceutical leader through innovative drug development, offering patients the pinnacle of treatment options.”