Samsung Biologics Co. is expanding its cancer drug manufacturing capabilities through a new partnership with LigaChem Biosciences to develop at least three antibody-drug conjugate (ADC)) projects this year.
The collaboration will utilize Samsung Biologics’ recently completed ADC production facility in Songdo, South Korea. The four-story complex features a 500-liter conjugation reactor and purification line, positioning the company to capture a larger share of the growing market for targeted cancer therapies.
The agreement builds on an existing relationship between the two South Korean companies that began last February with a contract development deal, followed by a material transfer agreement in June.
LigaChem aims to discover more than 15 clinical pipelines within five years and expects to start receiving royalties from 2025, according to Chief Executive Officer Kim Yong-joo. The company specializes in developing ADCs, which combine antibodies that target cancer cells with toxic drugs.
Samsung Biologics CEO John Rim said the partnership would help advance Korea’s position in ADC technology through the combined capabilities of a leading drug developer and major contract manufacturer.
The global ADC market has been expanding as drugmakers seek more precise ways to deliver cancer treatments while minimizing side effects. Several ADC therapies have already received regulatory approval.
