Clinical-stage biotechnology company AbCellera Biologics Inc (Nasdaq:ABCL) announced on Wednesday that it has entered into a collaboration with biopharmaceutical company Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (Nasdaq:VRTX) to research, develop, manufacture, and commercialise multispecific T-cell engagers for autoimmune diseases and other conditions.

Under the agreement, AbCellera will use its proprietary T-cell engager platform to lead discovery and early development activities, while Vertex will fund research and development costs and hold rights to develop and commercialise resulting therapeutic antibodies.

AbCellera will receive USD28m in upfront payments and is eligible for additional preclinical, development, regulatory, and commercial milestone payments, along with tiered royalties on net sales.

The companies may also agree for AbCellera to support cell line development, process development, and clinical manufacturing through Phase 1 for collaboration programmes.

AbCellera's platform provides integrated capabilities for developing multispecific T-cell engagers across therapeutic areas, including oncology and autoimmune conditions.