Description

Crucell has obtained an exclusive license from Stanford University (Palo Alto, California) for the development of an antibody combination against the hepatitis C virus. A large panel of fully human monoclonal antibodies against the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is being evaluated by Crucell in a proof of concept phase.

Development rationale

Hepatitis C has been referred to as a viral time bomb and there is currently no approved vaccine.  The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that about 180 million people, some three per cent of the world's population, are infected with HCV, 130 million of whom are chronic HCV carriers at risk of developing liver cirrhosis and/or liver cancer. It is estimated that three to four million people are newly infected each year, 70% of whom will develop chronic hepatitis. HCV is responsible for 50–76% of all liver cancer cases, and two thirds of all liver transplants in the developed world.

Although liver transplantation is a life-saving operation, it does not cure the patient from HCV infection. In fact, shortly after transplantation, the graft is re-infected with HCV. Due to the poor condition of the patient, who is receiving immunosuppressive therapy, the antiviral treatment needed to prevent re-infection is not tolerated.

Crucell is developing a monoclonal antibody combination with the aim to prevent re-infection of the transplanted liver. Monoclonal antibodies are (in contrast to antiviral agents) expected to be well-tolerated at this stage, because they constitute part of the body’s own defense mechanisms against infections. The antibodies under investigation recognize distinct parts of the E2 protein, which is exposed on the surface of the virus.  

Development status

In August 2009 Crucell obtained an exclusive license from Stanford University (Palo Alto, California) for the development of antibodies against the hepatitis C virus. A large panel of fully human monoclonal antibodies against the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is being evaluated by Crucell in a proof of concept phase.

About hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a disease of the liver, caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV).  The virus can be transmitted by direct blood contact, for instance, by sharing contaminated needles amongst drug users or needle stick injuries in healthcare settings. Mother-to-child HCV transmission has also been widely documented with the risk of perinatal infection ranging from three to 15% in differing populations.