WuXi XDC Cayman Inc., a global CRDMO specializing in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and other bioconjugates, has entered into a strategic collaboration with Earendil Labs to advance next-generation ADC development. The partnership centres on WuXi XDC’s proprietary WuXiTecan-2 payload-linker technology platform.

Under the agreement, WuXi XDC will grant Earendil Labs an exclusive global license to use the WuXiTecan-2 payload-linker technology against multiple specific targets. Earendil will apply the platform to conjugate antibodies and bispecific antibodies discovered through its artificial intelligence-driven discovery engine, advancing ADC candidates for autoimmune diseases, cancer and other unmet medical conditions.

The total potential value of the deal could reach approximately USD 885 million, including upfront payments as well as development, regulatory and sales milestone payments. WuXi XDC will also be eligible to receive tiered royalties on net sales of any commercialized ADC products resulting from the collaboration.

As part of the partnership, WuXi XDC will leverage its integrated CRDMO platform to support Chemistry, Manufacturing and Controls (CMC) development and manufacturing of ADC components. Earendil Labs will lead downstream product development, global regulatory submissions and commercialization efforts. The structure is designed to combine WuXi XDC’s ADC technology and manufacturing expertise with Earendil’s AI-powered antibody discovery capabilities.

Company executives highlighted the strategic importance of the alliance, noting that the integration of AI-driven antibody discovery with advanced payload-linker technology could improve the safety, efficacy and development speed of next-generation ADCs.

Earendil Labs focuses on AI-enabled biologics discovery, utilizing machine learning, generative protein engineering and high-throughput experimental platforms to accelerate drug research. WuXi XDC Cayman Inc. provides end-to-end services in bioconjugate development and offers a range of proprietary conjugation and payload-linker technologies to support innovative ADC programmes globally.