Connect with us

Technology

Evotec and Plectonic Enter Research Collaboration to Explore New Generation of T-Cell-Engaging Approaches for Solid Tumors

Published

on

Collaboration aims to validate Evotec’s proprietary BiTco costimulatory CD2 bispecifics platform in combination with Plectonic’s logic-gated DNA-protein immunotherapy technology LOGIBODY®BiTco designed to boost T cell activation by engaging a costimulatory signaling pathwayLOGIBODY® designed to enhance precision of T cell activation based on multispecific antigen signature

HAMBURG, Germany and HALLBERGMOOS, Germany, Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Evotec SE (NASDAQ: EVO) (Frankfurt Prime Standard: EVT) and Plectonic Biotech today announced a research collaboration to explore a novel immunotherapy approach for solid tumors. The collaboration addresses key challenges that have so far limited the successful application of traditional T cell engager therapies in solid tumors by combining Plectonic’s programmable LOGIBODY® technology with Evotec’s proprietary BiTco platform.

Plectonic’s LOGIBODY® technology engineers DNA-protein therapeutics designed to recognize tumors through a highly specific combination of tumor-associated antigens before engaging T cells. Unlike conventional T cell engagers, LOGIBODY® molecules require simultaneous binding to a predefined multi-antigen tumor signature to trigger T cell activation. This logic-gated approach represents a novel drug class aimed at improving treatment precision, reducing activation in healthy tissues and potentially broadening the therapeutic window.

Evotec’s BiTco platform is based on a proprietary, non-blocking CD2 antibody designed to provide an additional costimulatory signal to T cells, enhancing their activity and persistence within the tumor microenvironment. The antibody targets a unique CD2 epitope while preserving its natural interactions, enabling BiTco to strengthen T cell responses, enhance tumor cell killing mediated by T cell engagers, and delay T cell exhaustion.

By combining highly selective tumor recognition and enhanced T-cell activation, the companies will explore whether their integrated technologies can improve both the precision and potency of T-cell-engaging approaches in solid tumors. Under the terms of the agreement, the collaboration will generate preclinical proof-of-concept data to evaluate the potential of this new generation of T-cell-engaging approaches.

Dr. Cord Dohrmann, Chief Scientific Officer of Evotec, said:

“T cell engagers have demonstrated significant promise in oncology in blood cancers, yet challenges remain in extending their clinical success to solid tumors, which represent approximately 90 percent of all cancers. Through this collaboration, we aim to evaluate the potential of combining our proprietary BiTco platform with Plectonic’s LOGIBODY® technology and explore new strategies to enhance T cell engager activity in solid tumors. Our CD2-based co-stimulation approach is an ideal component for this effort or any TCE development strategy that seeks an effective source of T cell co-stimulation in the solid tumor setting.”

Dr. Klaus Wagenbauer, CEO and Founder of Plectonic Biotech, added:

“This collaboration with Evotec highlights the broad potential and modularity of our LOGIBODY® technology to engineer logic-gated T-cell-engaging biologics and explore novel multi-specific designs. By combining our complementary technologies, we have the opportunity to enable highly precise and controlled immune activation at the tumor. Together, we look forward to investigating this next-generation modality and exploring new ways to address long-standing challenges in tumor selectivity and safety that have limited the effectiveness of T cell engagers in solid tumor indications.”

Plectonic has demonstrated the modularity of its LOGIBODY® technology in preclinical studies across both liquid and solid tumors, utilizing dual-targeting and co-stimulatory therapeutic strategies. Evotec recently published preclinical research on its BiTco platform, providing proof-of-concept for CD2-mediated T cell co-stimulation in combination with T cell engager approaches.

About Plectonic Biotech

Plectonic Biotech’s new class of programmable DNA-protein therapeutics function as molecular logic gates to selectively direct the immune response to the tumor. By applying our modular LOGIBODY® platform, we are building a pipeline of multi-specific T-cell-engaging biologics designed to overcome off-target toxicity and exponentially improve the therapeutic impact of immunotherapies using clinically validated targets. Initially focused on hematologic malignancies, our approach is designed to deliver an unprecedented level of precision and control, broadening the therapeutic window and improving patient outcomes in both liquid and solid tumors.

About Evotec SE

Evotec is a life science company that is pioneering the future of drug discovery and development. By integrating breakthrough science with AI-driven innovation and advanced technologies, we accelerate the journey from concept to cure — faster, smarter, and with greater precision. Our expertise spans small molecules, biologics, cell therapies and associated modalities, supported by proprietary platforms such as Molecular Patient Databases, PanOmics and iPSC-based disease modeling. With flexible partnering models tailored to our customers’ needs, we work with all Top 20 Pharma companies, over 800 biotechs, academic institutions, and healthcare stakeholders. Our offerings range from standalone services to fully integrated R&D programs and long-term strategic partnerships, combining scientific excellence with operational agility. Through Just – Evotec Biologics, we redefine biologics development and manufacturing to improve accessibility and affordability. With a strong portfolio of over 100 proprietary R&D assets, most of them being co-owned, we focus on key therapeutic areas including oncology, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, neurology, and immunology. Evotec’s global team of around 4,500 experts operates from sites in Europe and the U.S., offering complementary technologies and services as synergistic centers of excellence. Learn more at www.evotec.com and follow us on LinkedIn and X/Twitter @Evotec.

Forward-looking statements

This announcement contains forward-looking statements concerning future events, including the proposed offering and listing of Evotec’s securities. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “should,” “target,” “would” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements include comments regarding Evotec’s expectations for revenues, Group EBITDA and unpartnered R&D expenses. These forward-looking statements are based on the information available to, and the expectations and assumptions deemed reasonable by Evotec at the time these statements were made. No assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates, which are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the control of Evotec. Evotec expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Evotec’s expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

Evotec Investor Relations and Media Contact

Dr. Sarah Fakih
EVP Head of Global Communications & Investor Relations
Sarah.Fakih@evotec.com

Plectonic Media Contact

Trophic Communications
Joe Rayne or Stephanie May
plectonic@trophic.eu
+49 171 185 5682

 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/evotec-and-plectonic-enter-research-collaboration-to-explore-new-generation-of-t-cell-engaging-approaches-for-solid-tumors-302867327.html

SOURCE Evotec SE

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Technology

Tusker Acquires Fortress SRM to Expand Cybersecurity Services

Published

on

By

Adds New Cybersecurity Expertise, 24/7 Security Operations Center and Ohio Valley Presence

CHICAGO, Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Tusker, a full-service technology solutions provider with clients across the country, today announced the acquisition of Fortress SRM, a Cleveland-based firm specializing in cybersecurity services. The acquisition adds nearly 50 cybersecurity professionals to the Tusker team, provides new security capabilities including 24/7 oversight, and expands Tusker’s geographic footprint with a sixth regional hub.

Founded in 2018, Fortress SRM serves customers across Ohio, northern Michigan and Wisconsin with a team of approximately 50 cybersecurity professionals. Its capabilities span security consulting and advisory services, virtual CISO leadership, managed security, incident response and digital forensics, and a 24/7 Security Operations Center (SOC) that delivers around-the-clock threat detection, analysis and remediation support.

The acquisition is the latest step in a strategic expansion campaign that has grown Tusker from its roots as a Chicago-based IT hardware distributor to a full-stack technology provider with more than 400 employees and regional hubs in Chicago, Boston, Green Bay, Duluth, Eau Claire and now Cleveland.

It marks Tusker’s fifth acquisition since 2017 and its first since unifying its portfolio companies under the Tusker brand earlier this year. Additional acquisitions are planned as the company continues building its geographic reach.

Expanding the Tusker Platform

The acquisition brings together two organizations with complementary strengths: Fortress SRM’s deep cybersecurity expertise, Tusker’s broader technology capabilities and geographic reach, and the high-touch service and trusted relationships that have been central to both organizations. It also advances a Tusker initiative to aggressively expand its services business.

“Fortress SRM brings exactly the kind of expertise and customer-centered culture that has defined every company we have acquired over the last nine years,” said Matt Zafirovski, CEO of Tusker. “This acquisition expands our cybersecurity team and related service capabilities, plants a flag for Tusker in the Ohio Valley, and strengthens our ability to be a trusted technology partner across the customer’s entire IT environment.”

The transaction also provides significant benefits to Fortress SRM’s cybersecurity customers.

“Many of our cybersecurity clients want a trusted partner who can support all of their IT needs, from desktops, servers and networks to technology planning, modernization and managed services,” said Jess Walpole, President of Fortress SRM. “Joining forces with Tusker gives them that convenience, along with a larger team and the same personal service they have come to expect from us.”

About Tusker

Tusker is a mid-market IT solutions provider that blends a broad portfolio of advisory, professional, managed and lifecycle technology solutions with a focus on building long-term client partnerships through a combination of IT expertise and highly personalized service. The firm operates from multiple regional hubs, serving clients ranging from local organizations to national brands. For more information, visit www.tuskerco.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tusker-acquires-fortress-srm-to-expand-cybersecurity-services-302867089.html

SOURCE ACP/Tusker

Continue Reading

Technology

Peerspace Launches All Inclusive Venues: A New Way to Book Venue, Food, and Service in a Single Reservation

Published

on

By

The new category launches today in New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and London, with
Chicago and Atlanta joining by the end of the year

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Peerspace, the leading marketplace for hourly venue rentals for events, productions, and meetings, today announces the launch of All Inclusive Venues, a new booking category that lets guests reserve the space, food, and drinks together in a single reservation. Peerspace, which recently crossed $800M in total booking value since its founding in 2014, is expanding the category across its marketplace.

Peerspace launches All Inclusive Venues – book space, food, and drinks in one reservation.

This new category is currently live in New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and London, with Chicago and Atlanta joining by the end of the year. Looking ahead, Peerspace plans to bring All Inclusive Venues to additional markets, starting with Washington D.C., Miami, Toronto, Dallas, San Diego, and Seattle, followed by Austin, Denver, and Houston. Peerspace expects to add over one thousand All Inclusive Venues to its marketplace in the coming months.

All Inclusive Venues are designed to remove the back-and-forth that typically comes with booking a full-service space. Guests see one all-in price upfront without needing to submit a ‘contact us’ form or wait for a call back. A few standout Peerspace All Inclusive Venues include:

Wandering Barman (Brooklyn, NY)Telephone (Brooklyn, NY)The Academy SF (San Francisco, CA)Rick & Roxy’s (San Francisco, CA)

“We wanted to take the guesswork out of party planning. No more juggling five vendors and not knowing what the night will ultimately cost,” says Rony Chammas, Founder and Chief Growth Officer, Peerspace. “All Inclusive Venues allow guests to lock in their venue, food, drinks, and staff all in a single booking with clear upfront pricing.”

For hosts, All Inclusive Venues creates a new source of customer awareness and demand without any ongoing fees. Hosts can list their business on Peerspace for free, opening up their venues to clientele beyond traditional events, including corporate meetings and productions, while gaining access to Peerspace’s advanced tooling, including custom proposals, calendar sync, and a performance metrics dashboard.

New All Inclusive Venue hosts point to Peerspace’s impact on their business:

“Peerspace has been a great partner to help market our venue to new customers. We opened last year and started receiving private event and production inquiries within the first few weeks.” — Bryan S., Quick Eternity, New York, NY

“Peerspace is by far the best third-party platform we’ve partnered with when it comes to generating leads. It’s helped us significantly increase bookings for our upstairs private room.”

— Shannon H., Country Club, Chicago, IL

“Peerspace has been a great platform to work with, helping us connect with new clients and introduce our venue to a wider audience. The platform is easy to use, and their team has always been responsive whenever we’ve had questions or needed support.”

— Dave C., Skylark & Soundtrack, San Francisco, CA

All Inclusive Venues also debuted this year as one of two new categories in Peerspace’s fourth annual Open Door Awards, which recognize over 800 exceptional spaces across 23 cities in the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and France. To browse All Inclusive Venues, visit peerspace.com and apply the “Food and drink included” filter. To list your All Inclusive Venue on Peerspace, visit try.peerspace.com/all-inclusive-venues.

About Peerspace 

Peerspace is the leading marketplace for hourly venue rentals for meetings, productions, and events. By opening doors to the most inspiring spaces worldwide, Peerspace empowers creativity while enabling hosts to earn additional income. The company connects guests with 50,000+ unique spaces, ranging from lofts and mansions to storefronts and studios. Founded in San Francisco in 2014, Peerspace is backed by investors including GV (Google Ventures) and Foundation Capital. Discover inspiring spaces to meet, create, and celebrate at www.peerspace.com

Media Contact: press@peerspace.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/peerspace-launches-all-inclusive-venues-a-new-way-to-book-venue-food-and-service-in-a-single-reservation-302867035.html

SOURCE Peerspace

Continue Reading

Technology

ChainIT Launches “Provable Authority” as U.S. Generative AI-Enabled Fraud Losses Are Projected to Reach $40 Billion by 2027

Published

on

By

New white paper introduces pre-execution authority controls for employees, owners, organizations, workflows and AI agents—before money moves

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ChainIT, a digital verification and compliance platform that helps organizations validate identities, businesses, authority and compliance status through trusted data sources and auditable workflows, today announced the release of “Provable Authority,” a technical white paper introducing a pre-execution framework for determining whether a person, business, workflow or autonomous AI agent is authorized to perform one exact action before money, data, assets or contractual rights move.

Deloitte’s Center for Financial Services projects that generative-AI-enabled fraud losses in the United States could reach $40 billion by 2027, up from $12.3 billion in 2023.[1] The Global Anti-Scam Alliance estimates that $442 billion was lost to scams across 42 surveyed markets during the preceding year.[2]

Financial institutions and businesses have invested heavily in authentication, transaction monitoring and fraud detection. Yet a valid login, signature or cryptographic key does not necessarily prove who granted the underlying authority, whether it remains current, what limits apply or whether the final instruction matches what was approved. The problem already affects employee wires, owner approvals, vendor payments and treasury operations. Autonomous AI magnifies the exposure by operating continuously, across systems and at machine speed.

Provable Authority addresses both the longstanding business-authority problem and the emerging agentic authority problem. The white paper introduces the ChainIT Authority Protocol and its Agent Subject Profile, connecting verified identity, organizational authority, delegated scope, sourced evidence, deterministic controls, transaction capacity and exact instruction approval. It is designed to answer a critical question before execution: Is this employee, owner, representative, workflow or AI agent currently authorized to perform this exact transaction?

“Like almost everyone, I am flooded with scam texts, emails, calls and voicemails designed to make me trust someone who may not be who they claim to be. AI can now clone voices, recreate faces and make fraudulent instructions more convincing and more difficult to detect. That is why identity alone is no longer enough,” said Jeremy Blackburn, Chief Executive Officer of ChainIT. “Before money moves, organizations need to verify that the employee, owner, representative, workflow or AI agent is actually authorized to take that specific action, within defined limits, at that moment. Provable Authority is designed to help prevent the fraud people and businesses are experiencing today while establishing the controls needed for the agentic economy already emerging. I am incredibly proud of the ChainIT team for developing a practical, forward-looking solution to one of the most urgent trust and security challenges in modern commerce.”

Core Technical Pillars

Verified authority chains: ChainIT ID, ChainIT Org ID and Authority Resolution Pactvera connect the acting party to the verified person, organization, role and delegation behind the action.Deterministic pre-execution controls: Versioned authority policies, sourced evidence and rules-based workflows return explicit outcomes such as Allow, Step-Up, Hold, Reject or Prohibit.Transaction-bound authorization: A canonical transaction digest binds the payer, payee, destination, amount, currency or asset, payment rail and other material terms to approval and execution.Agent containment and immutable evidence: Scoped session credentials, single-use execution authorization, capacity controls, append-only Validated Data Tokens and Valitorum preserve what was authorized and what occurred.

“The technical breakthrough is the separation of authentication, delegated authority, proposal activity and final execution,” said Matt Koepp, Chief Technology Officer of ChainIT. “An AI agent may evaluate information and propose an action, but deterministic controls decide whether the action is within scope, whether authority remains current, whether capacity is available, whether human approval is required and whether the exact instruction may be committed.”

Financial institutions, technology companies, developers, compliance leaders and enterprise organizations can download “Provable Authority” at https://chainit.com/chainit_provable_authority_whitepaper/

About ChainIT

ChainIT provides digital identity, business verification, compliance, and auditable workflow solutions that help organizations establish trust across business relationships. ChainIT’s platform supports KYB, KYC, identity verification, authority validation, beneficial ownership workflows, sanctions and watchlist screening, compliance documentation, ongoing monitoring, and immutable audit evidence through Validated Data Tokens (VDTs).

By helping organizations verify people, businesses, authority, and compliance status through trusted data sources and automated workflows, ChainIT enables customers to reduce risk, streamline onboarding, improve transparency, and make critical operational decisions based on verified and current information.

www.chainit.com

Source Notes
[1] Deloitte, “Deepfake banking and AI fraud risk.”
[2] Global Anti-Scam Alliance, “Global State of Scams 2025” and “GASA Policy Agenda 2026.”

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chainit-launches-provable-authority-as-us-generative-ai-enabled-fraud-losses-are-projected-to-reach-40-billion-by-2027-302866938.html

SOURCE ChainIT Inc

Continue Reading

Trending