WuXi Biologics, a global Contract Research, Development and Manufacturing Organisation (CRDMO), has entered into a license and research service agreement with Vertex Pharmaceuticals for an innovative trispecific T-cell engager (TCE) aimed at treating B-cell mediated autoimmune diseases.

Under the terms of the agreement, Vertex will obtain exclusive worldwide rights to develop and commercialise the preclinical-stage trispecific TCE. The molecule was discovered using WuXi Biologics’ integrated research platforms and is designed to target B-cell driven autoimmune conditions.

As part of the collaboration, WuXi Biologics will receive an upfront payment and will be eligible for additional development, regulatory and commercial milestone payments, along with royalties based on future product sales. The company will also provide Vertex with contract research and development services to support work on next-generation T-cell engagers.

Dr. Chris Chen, Chief Executive Officer, WuXi Biologics, said, “The partnership highlights the company’s strength in discovery services and validates its CRDMO business model. The collaboration aims to accelerate the advancement of innovative therapies for serious diseases through the company’s integrated technology platforms.”

Dr. Mark Bunnage, Chief Scientific Officer at Vertex, emphasized the company’s commitment to developing transformative treatments for patients with severe conditions. He stated that the agreement provides Vertex with an additional opportunity to advance promising new medicines and explore the therapeutic potential of the trispecific TCE.

The partnership underscores growing industry interest in advanced immunotherapies, including multi-specific T-cell engagers, as a potential strategy for treating complex autoimmune disorders.