AbCellera and MSD enter antibody collaboration

AbCellera, a biotechnology company specialising in the rapid discovery of monoclonal antibodies from natural immune cells, is to collaborate with Merck (known as MSD outside the US and Canada), through a subsidiary, to generate antibodies against an undisclosed disease target.

Under the agreement, AbCellera will apply its high-throughput antibody discovery platform to identify antibodies that specifically modulate target function. The agreement grants MSD the option to develop antibody candidates identified through the collaboration for specified therapeutic applications. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Commenting on the announcement, Dr Carl Hansen, President and CEO of AbCellera, said: “Our platform has the potential to generate functional antibodies against extremely difficult targets that have been intractable until now. We’re excited to partner with a global innovator like MSD in the discovery of antibodies to advance their pipeline of next-generation therapies.”

“MSD recognizes the innovative science and synergy of collaboration in British Columbia. Our company has established several life sciences collaborations in the province aimed at translating breakthrough science into products that can bring meaningful improvements to patients’ lives,” explained Chirfi Guindo, President and Managing Director at MSD Canada Inc. “We are pleased to be working with AbCellera to identify novel antibodies using their innovative microfluidic discovery technology.”