XBiotech Announces Development of A Novel True Human™ Antibody Therapeutic

AUSTIN, Texas, May 31, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- XBiotech, a privately held biotechnology company, announced today its development of a novel True Human™ therapeutic antibody. The Company reports that the antibody neutralizes a pro-inflammatory molecule known as interleukin-6 (IL-6). Agents targeting IL-6 have been effective therapy for a number of autoimmune or oncology-related diseases. Other therapeutic antibody products targeting IL-6 have already reached clinical trials and the market place, but the Company believes that its antibody will represent a substantial improvement over these existing agents. True Human™ antibodies, which are cloned directly from a human immune response, are expected to be the safest, best tolerated antibody therapeutics. The Company is now developing a manufacturing process for the antibody, and expects to be ready for clinical studies in early 2014.

Dr. Sushma Shivaswamy, Director of Research at XBiotech, says, "We are very gratified to identify and launch a new True Human™ antibody from our discovery engine. Identifying these antibodies from the human population is the culmination of a coordinated and technically challenging program. Seeing these antibodies ultimately used in the clinic is particularly satisfying. We hope many patients will benefit from this natural human therapeutic."

ABOUT XBIOTECH
XBiotech is leading the commercialization of next generation antibody therapeutics—with a discovery platform for True Human™ antibodies. The Company's lead product candidate—in Phase III clinical studies—is a novel, breakthrough treatment for advanced colorectal cancer. XBiotech has also developed bioreactor manufacturing technology to reduce infrastructure needs, lessen capital requirements and reduce lead times. Low-complexity production capability suggests a new paradigm for cost and development efficiency in the biopharmaceutical industry.

XBiotech believes that its unique blend of assets, discovery platform and cost structure has created the foundation for a unique growth business.

Contact:
Investors:
Ashley Otero
XBiotech
info@xbiotech.com
512.386.2930

SOURCE XBiotech