Merck Serono to Spin Off Parkinson's R&D
First start-up funded by Merck Serono's Entrepreneur Partnership Program announced.
Merck Serono, a division of Merck KGaA, announced in June, 2012 that it would be closing down operations in Geneva, Switzerland as part of its restructuring activities, but providing up to EUR 30 million ($36.9 million) in funding for start-up companies to reemploy some of those displaced workers. The first such start-up was announced on Jul. 30, 2012, funded by EUR 2.1 million ($2.57 million) in seed money from Merck Serono’s Entrepreneur Partnership Program.
The new company, Prexton Therapeutics, will employ Merck Serono scientists to continue work around Merck Serono’s R&D portfolio in the field of Parkinson’s disease. Its programs will leverage Merck Serono’s portfolio of compounds targeting the metabotropic glutamate receptors mGluR3 and mGluR4. Prexton Therapeutics plans to develop the mGluR programs from lead optimization up to clinical Phase I and will look for partnership and licensing opportunities for further development.
According to François Naef, chairman of the board of directors of Merck Serono, “We are really proud and satisfied that this first project is now coming to life. Through such initiatives, not only will we be able to maintain jobs in the Geneva area but also unique expertise.”
The Future of Cleanroom Construction: How Hybrid Solutions are Changing the Game
May 14th 2025Imagine a world where cleanroom facilities—essential for pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology, and high-tech industries—are built with unparalleled speed, precision, and efficiency. That world is here, thanks to the hybrid construction approach. By blending traditional stick-built methods with modular and prefabricated solutions, companies are overcoming the limitations of conventional construction while ensuring compliance with stringent industry regulations. In this interview, we explore how hybrid cleanroom construction is transforming the industry, offering faster project timelines, improved quality control, and significant cost advantages. Join us as we delve into this game-changing approach with industry experts who are leading the charge in revolutionizing cleanroom infrastructure.
Mastering Antibody-Drug Conjugates
December 19th 2024In this episode, we explore BIOVECTRA’s capabilities in antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) manufacturing, from complex conjugation chemistry to synthesis of highly potent payloads. We’ll also showcase how BIOVECTRA’s extensive experience in complex chemistries and specialized small molecule manufacturing gives them a unique perspective, strengthening their approach to ADC production and ensuring clients receive custom solutions across all project stages.
Novartis Acquisition of Regulus Therapeutics is Complete
June 25th 2025A key property included in the acquisition is farabursen, an investigational next-generation oligonucleotide targeting the microRNA miR-17 with preferential kidney exposure, intended to treat people with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.
