AbCellera, Merck Ink Antibody Discovery Alliance

AbCellera has entered a collaboration with Merck to generate antibodies against an undisclosed disease target.
 
AbCellera will apply its high-throughput antibody discovery platform to identify antibodies that specifically modulate target function. Merck has the option to develop antibody candidates identified through the collaboration for specified therapeutic applications. Financial terms were not disclosed.
 
“Our platform has the potential to generate functional antibodies against extremely difficult targets that have been intractable until now,” said Dr. Carl Hansen, president and chief executive officer of AbCellera. “We’re excited to partner with a global innovator like Merck in the discovery of antibodies to advance their pipeline of next-generation therapies.”
 
“Merck 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,” said Chirfi Guindo, president and managing director at Merck Canada Inc. “We are pleased to be working with AbCellera to identify novel antibodies using their innovative microfluidic discovery technology.”