Tonix Pharmaceuticals, Makana to announce collaboration research agreement

Tonix Pharmaceuticals (TNXP) announced a collaborative research agreement under which Tonix and Makana will study Tonix’s anti-CD40L monoclonal antibody candidate, TNX-1500, in combination with Makana’s human-compatible organs and cells for the treatment of organ failure. The preclinical research and development collaboration has the potential to span multiple Makana programs including kidney, heart and islet cell transplant. The goal of the preclinical studies is to support the submission of an investigational new drug application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to support compassionate use for patients undergoing xenotransplantation. “We are excited to partner with Makana in support of our mutual goal to offer novel solutions for patients requiring organ or cellular transplantation,” said Seth Lederman, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Tonix. “We believe this strategic agreement is a promising step towards utilizing xenotransplantation in the clinic. Makana’s novel genetically engineered pigs, which have deleted swine leukocyte antigen, has shown improved human compatibility and several other advantages over other technologies including high rates of fertility and birthing, which potentially increases their ability to produce viable organs to satisfy a commercial market globally.”