Merck Serono Oncology Profile:
Merck Serono, a division of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, focuses in oncology on identifying key molecules involved in the formation of cancer, which can then be used in the development of novel targeted treatments that specifically act on cancer cells. Research activities are focused on three areas:
- Compounds that act directly on tumor cells
- Compounds that act indirectly on tumor cells via their interaction with their local environment
- Compounds that enhance the immune system
The monoclonal antibody Erbitux® (cetuximab) specifically blocks the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Erbitux has now received approval in 80 countries for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) and in 77 countries for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN).
A range of new compounds, including among others the cancer vaccine Stimuvax® (BLP25 liposome vaccine) and the integrin inhibitor cilengitide, are currently undergoing clinical development.
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