WuXi Biologics (HKG:2269), a China-based global Contract Research, Development, and Manufacturing Organisation (CRDMO), announced on Monday that it has entered into a licence and research service agreement with US biopharmaceutical company Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (Nasdaq:VRTX) for an innovative trispecific T-cell Engager (TCE) for the treatment of B-cell mediated autoimmune diseases.

Through this agreement Vertex gains exclusive global rights to develop and commercialise an innovative trispecific TCE at the preclinical stage designed for the treatment of B-cell mediated autoimmune diseases.

WuXi Biologics will receive an upfront payment and is eligible to receive development, regulatory, and sales milestone payments, as well as royalty payments. In addition, WuXi Biologics will provide Vertex with contract research and development services on novel next-generation TCEs.