Indena, Greenchem Partner to Develop Payload Linkers for Antibody Drug Conjugates

Indena, a specialist in nutraceuticals, high-quality active pharmaceutical ingredients, and highly potent APIs derived from plant extraction, synthesis, and precision fermentation, and TCG GreenChem, a contract research, development, and manufacturing organization (CRDMO) focused on rapid development of pharmaceutical processes, have partnered to develop payload-linkers, a key component of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).

The partnership combines Indena’s expertise in developing and producing highly potent payloads, and TCG GreenChem’s approaches in green chemistry, catalysis, and biocatalysis, and “right first time” methodologies.

By combining the two companies’ capabilities, which include high containment knowledge and fast-paced R&D&, the two companies aim to provide ADC developers with a faster, more efficient, and reliable route to clinical and commercial supply. The first milestone of this partnership is a novel payload-linker that can reduce development times and improve delivery to patients.

“Partnering with TCG GreenChem means working with an authoritative partner to address the needs of ADCs developers,” said Daniele Giavini, managing director at Indena. “Our expertise in high containment processes, designed to produce innovative HPAPIs, complements their deep capability in complex chemistry and process intensification, managed with a green approach. Through this approach, we will be able to offer next-generation solutions to the industry, always keeping sustainability in mind. I am confident we will make a significant impact for helping the development of precision treatments.”

“We are proud to join forces with Indena, a recognized pioneer and leader in highly potent and oncological APIs chemistry. Together, we will drive a new era of greener, faster, and more flexible pharmaceutical development, aligned with the industry’s evolving expectations,” said Chris Senanayake, CEO of TCG GreenChem.

There have been continuous increases of commercial and clinical antibody-drug conjugates; as of this year, more than 180 companies are developing more than 1,170 ADC candidates, placing significant demands on development and manufacturing infrastructure.

The partnership between the two companies will be focused on sustainability. TCG GreenChem works on complex chemistry, reducing environmental impact via solvent minimization, waste reduction, and energy-efficient reactions. Indena’s sustainability program is in line with the United Nations’ 2030 agenda for sustainable development goals (SDGs), and addresses sustainable sourcing, renewable resources, product design focused on waste reduction, minimization of resource consumption, and overarching commitment to circular economy.