Zymeworks has extended its research collaboration with Merck, dating back to August 2011. Additionally, Merck gains expanded access to Zymeworks’ Azymetric platform for the development of novel bi-specific antibody therapeutic candidates.
 
Zymeworks has granted Merck, through a subsidiary, a worldwide license to develop and commercialize bi-specific antibodies generated through use of the Azymetric platform for certain therapeutic targets. Both companies will progress bi-specific therapeutic antibody candidates in preclinical development with Merck responsible for clinical development and commercialization.
 
The Azymetric platform can be used to rapidly screen target and sequence combinations for bi-specific activities in the final therapeutic format, shortening drug development timelines.
 
“We are extremely pleased with how the strategic collaboration is progressing with Merck and we are looking forward to working even closer together with the Merck biologics team in bringing groundbreaking therapies to the clinic,” said Ali Tehrani, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of Zymeworks.