Merck Licenses Xencor Fc Antibody Technology

Xencor, Inc. has entered into a technology license and option agreement to provide Merck access to one of its Fc engineering patents for an undisclosed therapeutic monoclonal antibody, as well as an option to license the same IP for future products. Xencor will receive an upfront payment and annual maintenance fees. Xencor is also eligible to receive milestone payments and royalties on sales of any potential products that may result.
 
“This agreement with Merck reflects the significant value we have seen in the use of our extensive antibody engineering IP for enhancing next-generation protein and antibody drug candidates,” said Bassil Dahiyat, Ph.D., Xencor’s chief executive officer. “This technology offers our partners an opportunity to create truly best-in-class therapeutics which will be covered by our ever growing IP portfolio.”