AbCellera Biologics Inc. announced that they have entered into a collaboration to advance new antibody drug programs with an aim to launch multiple asset-based companies. The first two programs will be in the area of immunology. The collaboration brings together Viking and ArrowMark's expertise in early-stage investing and company creation with AbCellera's engine for discovering and developing antibody medicines.

Under the collaboration, ArrowMark and Viking will lead the initial process of program selection, followed by joint determination of the therapeutic product profile and AbCellera's initiation of new antibody drug programs. AbCellera will advance programs to development candidates and has an option to conduct cGMP manufacturing to support Phase 1 clinical trials. Successful programs will be further developed through the creation of Newcos, with Viking and ArrowMark funding work through to company launch. Under the terms of the collaboration, Viking and ArrowMark will be majority shareholders of the Newcos, and AbCellera will participate as an equity founding partner with the potential for milestones and royalties on future sales of each product.