In the 2009 Forska&Väx (Research & Grow) financing programme, SentoClone has received SEK 4 million from VINNOVA (The Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems). In total VINNOVA is providing SEK 80 million in grants to 68 small companies in Sweden for research and development related projects.

"We will be using the VINNOVA grant for a Phase II clinical study on malignant melanoma as soon as we have received GMP certification. To date, we have been financed by venture capital companies. The grant we have received represents a favourable addition, allowing us to carry out the planned study on malignant melanoma more quickly," says Johan Järte, CEO of SentoClone AB.

Medicinal product classification imposes requirements
From the start of 2009, a new European Regulation on medicinal products for advanced therapies applies, making the rules for such products uniform within Europe. This means that the method being developed by SentoClone is classed as a medicinal product, which imposes extensive requirements on adaptation to specific requirements.

Specially adapted premises in Sundbyberg
SentoClone's activities are conducted in specially adapted premises in Sundbyberg, outside Stockholm. The facility is intended to act as a Centre of Excellence, conducting research and training. Since the inauguration last autumn, efforts are in progress to qualify and validate all premises and processes, as well as all equipment used in production, in accordance with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) for medicinal products.

Treatment of 100 patients
To date, 100 patients have been treated using the method whereby the body's own immune defence system is activated and strengthened. The treatment has shown promising results at the individual level and, so far, no significant side effects have been seen.

Strengthened organisation
SentoClone AB has recruited several new employees, adding a number of areas of specialist expertise. Vera Franzén, who was appointed in the autumn, has extensive experience of drug development at both large and small pharmaceuticals companies and is highly knowledgeable on the legislation on medicinal products and its application. The organisation was further strengthened in the spring with the appointment of Freddi Lewin as Medical Director responsible for clinical studies. In total, the company now employs 28 people.

SentoClone AB is a Swedish Life Science research company that is developing a patented method whereby the body's immune defence system is activated and strengthened to fight cancer. The company was established in 2004, has 28 employees and is located in Sundbyberg, outside Stockholm. For further information, please visit www.sentoclone.com.