Achievement validates CAPTN-3 platform scalability and advances IM1240 toward first-in-human clinical trials in 2026
Purple Biotech (PPBT), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on novel cancer immunotherapies, announced a major advancement in its antibody development program with the successful manufacturing of IM1240, its first tri-specific antibody from the company’s CAPTN-3 platform. The achievement marks the establishment of a commercially viable yield and purity level—an important step toward future clinical applications.
IM1240 is designed to target 5T4, a tumor-associated antigen, while simultaneously engaging the CD3 receptor on T cells and blocking the NKG2A inhibitory receptor on NK and CD8⁺ T cells. This triple mechanism of action aims to trigger a strong and localized immune response against cancer cells while reducing the risk of systemic immune activation. An Investigational New Drug (IND) submission is planned for 2026, paving the way for first-in-human trials.
CEO Gil Efron emphasized that developing a scalable and efficient process for producing tri-specific antibodies represents a major scientific and operational milestone. “Our CAPTN-3 platform now demonstrates competitive yield and purity, positioning Purple Biotech at the forefront of next-generation immune oncology solutions,” he stated.
Dr. Michael Schickler, Head of Clinical and Regulatory Affairs, highlighted the technical breakthrough, noting that the IM1240 antibody’s protease-cleavable albumin-bound cap prevents systemic immune activation, focusing the immune response within the tumor microenvironment. This design is intended to enhance both safety and therapeutic durability.
The CAPTN-3 platform’s ability to conditionally activate immune responses through tri-specific targeting positions Purple Biotech as an emerging leader in tumor-immune evasion research, combining innovation, scalability, and clinical readiness as it moves closer to first-in-human evaluation.
You might like this article:Orion Group Holdings Delivers Strong Q3 Results and Raises 2025 Guidance
