Merck KGaA Acquires JSR Chromatography Unit, Adds 50 Employees, Starts MK-8748 Phase 2b/3 Trial
Merck KGaA completed acquisition of JSR Life Sciences’ chromatography business, integrating advanced Protein A resins and a Belgian facility with 50 employees into its downstream monoclonal antibody processing portfolio. Merck has initiated the pivotal Phase 2b/3 MALBEC trial of MK-8748, a bispecific Tie2 agonist/VEGF inhibitor targeting neovascular age-related macular degeneration.
1. Merck KGaA Completes JSR Chromatography Acquisition
Merck KGaA has finalized its acquisition of JSR Life Sciences’ chromatography business, adding advanced Protein A chromatography capabilities and Amsphere Protein A resins to its downstream monoclonal antibody purification portfolio. The transaction includes operations in Belgium and a team of more than 50 employees serving global biotech and pharma clients.
2. Merck Initiates Phase 2b/3 MALBEC MK-8748 Trial
Merck has initiated the pivotal Phase 2b/3 MALBEC trial to evaluate MK-8748, a bispecific Tie2 agonist/VEGF inhibitor, for neovascular age-related macular degeneration. The study will measure safety, efficacy and optimal dosing to support potential approval of this novel therapeutic approach.