AbCellera Biologics announced a collaboration with Vertex Pharmaceuticals. The partnership aims to discover and develop multispecific T-cell engagers for autoimmune diseases and other conditions. AbCellera will lead discovery and early development activities, utilizing its proprietary T-cell engager platform. Vertex holds the right to develop and commercialize resulting therapeutic antibodies.
Vertex will fund all research and development costs. AbCellera receives $28 million in total upfront payments from the deal. AbCellera is also eligible for future payments based on preclinical, development, regulatory, and commercial milestones. Additionally, AbCellera will receive tiered royalties on net sales.