RQ Biotechnology

RQ Biotechnology Ltd. is a UK-based biotechnology company established in 2021 that specializes in discovering and developing potent, broad-spectrum monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to provide passive immunity against viral infectious diseases. The company targets vulnerable populations, such as the immunocompromised, the elderly, and newborns, who cannot mount an effective response to traditional vaccines.

The company's scientific approach is inspired by the 'Red Queen' hypothesis, which posits that species must constantly evolve to survive against ever-evolving opposing species. RQ Bio applies this concept to the arms race between viruses and the human immune system, aiming to develop evolutionarily advanced antibodies. Its process involves using knowledge of virus evolution to select appropriate viral proteins for immunization, discovering the most potent and resilient natural human antibodies, and using its expertise in neutralization assays to select the best leads.

RQ Bio was co-founded by a team of scientific experts, including Mike Westby, Paul Kellam, and Jane Osbourn, who were previously involved with the UK BIA Antibody Taskforce. The company launched from stealth mode in May 2022. Its business model focuses on early-stage discovery and subsequent partnership with large pharmaceutical companies for clinical development, manufacturing, and commercialization. A key milestone was a licensing deal with AstraZeneca for its portfolio of mAbs against SARS-CoV-2, which included potential payments of up to $157 million plus royalties. The company also has a strategic collaboration with AbCellera to identify clinical candidates for targets including influenza and cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Keywords: monoclonal antibodies, passive immunization, infectious diseases, virology, antibody discovery, immunotherapy, viral evolution, broad-spectrum antibodies, immunocompromised patients, SARS-CoV-2, influenza, cytomegalovirus, RSV, antibody engineering, biopharmaceuticals, drug discovery, preventative therapies, LifeArc, AstraZeneca partnership, AbCellera collaboration