Vertex and AbCellera team up to develop next-generation T-cell engagers for autoimmune diseases

Vertex Pharmaceuticals has entered a partnership with AbCellera to create next-generation T-cell engagers aimed at autoimmune diseases. AbCellera will receive an upfront payment of $28 million, with additional milestone payments and sales royalties possible.

Under the agreement, AbCellera will lead discovery and early development, while Vertex will cover all research and development costs and retain the right to commercialize any resulting medicines.

The deal adds to a wave of collaborations focused on multifunctional antibody drugs that engage immune cells. Although several T-cell engagers are already approved for blood cancers, developers are now pursuing broader applications, giving Vertex a chance to diversify beyond its cystic fibrosis portfolio.