Biotech Giant AbCellera Joins Forces with Viking Global Investors and ArrowMark Partners to Drive New Antibody Drug Programs
Biotech powerhouse AbCellera (ABCL) has formed a groundbreaking alliance with Viking Global Investors and ArrowMark Partners to pioneer cutting-edge antibody drug programs, with a focus on immunology. The collaboration will lead to the creation of a new company, Newcos, which will spearhead the development of selected programs with Viking and ArrowMark as the principal stakeholders. AbCellera will take charge of the initial development and manufacturing for phase 1 trials, with the potential to earn milestone payments and royalties. This partnership marks a significant milestone in AbCellera's growth trajectory, following its recent partnerships with major pharmaceutical and biotech companies, including Biogen (BIIB).
Key Takeaways
- AbCellera (ABCL) collaborates with Viking Global Investors and ArrowMark Partners to develop innovative antibody drug programs, with a primary focus on immunology.
- Newcos will be established to drive the advancement of selected programs, with Viking and ArrowMark holding the majority of shares.
- AbCellera will spearhead the development of antibody drug programs and could engage in cGMP manufacturing for phase 1 clinical trials.
- AbCellera will be an equity founding partner in Newcos, with the potential for milestone payments and sales royalties.
- AbCellera has previously forged partnerships with prominent pharmaceutical firms and biotech companies, including Biogen (BIIB).
Analysis
This groundbreaking collaboration signifies a significant shift in the biotech industry. In the immediate term, AbCellera is poised to secure milestone payments and royalties, while Viking and ArrowMark gain majority ownership in selected programs. Long term, this partnership has the potential to drive major advancements in antibody drug development, particularly within the realm of immunology. This could lead to heightened competition for other players in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors, such as Biogen. Furthermore, it may pave the way for additional partnerships between biotech firms and financial investors, potentially reshaping the industry's landscape.
Did You Know?
AbCellera (ABCL): AbCellera specializes in the discovery and development of antibody-based therapeutics, utilizing proprietary technology platforms to optimize fully human antibodies for treating various diseases.Antibody Drug Programs: This refers to the process of creating therapeutic antibodies, which involves identifying and isolating antibodies with specific properties, optimizing their structure and function, and developing them into viable candidates for treating a wide range of diseases.cGMP Manufacturing: This entails adhering to the current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) regulations enforced by the FDA to ensure consistent and controlled production of pharmaceutical products according to quality standards. The process specifically focuses on manufacturing drug products according to cGMP regulations for use in early-stage clinical trials, ensuring safety and efficacy.