CellCentric Secures 25th Epigenetics Academic Agreement

CellCentric’s discovery network represents the single strongest commercial discovery resource in epigenetics.

Knowledge assimilation in novel targets and cell fate control mechanisms has led to deals with Pfizer as well as Takeda.

CellCentric, the biotechnology company unlocking epigenetic control mechanisms, has further expanded its network of relationships, with an agreement covering Professors Ramin Shiekhattar and Luciano Di Croce at the Center for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona. The company now has ties with 25 laboratories across the world.

This is the largest innovation and discovery base of any biotech company in the field. CellCentric also works with significant institutions such as the University of Cambridge, Massachusetts General Hospital, the University of Southern California, the Babraham Institute and MD Anderson Cancer Center. 

Currently the company has six active small molecule discovery programmes and is building a portfolio of epigenetic-related supporting technologies, including screens and markers. CellCentric has prioritised these through working with the breadth of leading epigenetic researchers who it helps to identify and evaluate findings of commercial value. The company interacts closely with multiple Technology Transfer Offices to file patents and finalise licences.

CellCentric previously announced a feasibility study and option agreement with Takeda Pharmaceuticals in January 2009, where the two companies are collaborating on a novel cancer target. The company has also signed a non-exclusive evaluative and optional licence agreement to a particular screening assay in October 2008 with Pfizer Regenerative Medicine.

Commenting on the developments, Dr Will West, Chief Executive, said:

“The team at CellCentric is delighted to reinforce its discovery base with the addition of leaders of the calibre of Ramin and Luciano.

“Epigenetics is still an emerging field; breadth of scientific understanding will be key to commercial success. Our innovative business model of harnessing information from multiple world leaders has fuelled a series of highly competitive discovery programmes.  The fact that we have translated this to early deals that have brought in revenue without diluting our assets, proves we are recognised to be in a dominant position in epigenetics.”