Kite Pharma, Netherlands Cancer Institute expand partnership

Santa Monica, California-based Kite Pharma, Inc. recently expanded its partnership with the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI).

As part of the deal, the NKI will provide Kite with the exclusive option to license multiple T cell receptor (TCR) gene sequences for the development and commercialization of cancer immunotherapy candidates targeting solid tumors.

Additionally, Kite has increased its access to additional resources and research facilities through a master services agreement with the NKI.

"We are excited with the progress of the TCR research programs with Kite and look forward to further advancements of the programs and our collaboration,"  René Medema, the director of NKI, said. "NKI believes that TCR technologies hold great potential for cancer care, and we are committed to making these new therapies a reality for patients."

Kite Pharma EU, based in Amsterdam, will conduct the preclinical research related to candidates.

"With Kite Pharma EU, we have established a central hub of cancer immunotherapy efforts in Europe, attracting leading scientific experts, researchers and collaborators in this field," Dr. Arie Belldegrun, chairman, president and CEO of Kite. "Kite's relationship with the NKI, an internationally renowned cancer research and clinical institution, provides an important operational platform, as we advance TCR-based immuno-oncology product candidates."

Kite Pharma is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company engaged in the development of novel cancer immunotherapy products. For more information, visit www.kitepharma.com.