Abbott and Biotest Announce Global Agreement to Develop and Commercialize Novel Antibody for Autoimmune Diseases

Abbott ABT and Biotest AG today announced a global agreement to develop and commercialize BT-061, a novel anti-CD4 antibody for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. BT-061 is currently in Phase II clinical trials for RA and psoriasis, with preclinical studies underway to study its potential use in other immune-related diseases. CD4 is expressed on T-cells and is involved in T-cell mediated modulation of immune responses. BT-061 is a humanized monoclonal antibody that works by activating the body's T-regulatory cells, a subset of T-cells, strengthening a natural function of the body that prevents excessive immune reactions. Unlike other anti-CD4 antibodies that have been in development, BT-061 does not cause depletion of CD4 positive T-cells that would give rise to weakened immune responses.