Synaffix BV, a Lonza company (SIX: LONN) focused on its clinical-stage platform technology for the development of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), announced on Wednesday that it has signed a licensing agreement with ABL Bio, Inc. (KOSDAQ: 298380), a clinical-stage biotech developing bispecific antibody technology for immuno-oncology and neurodegenerative diseases, for developing bispecific ADCs.

Under the licensing agreement, Synaffix is to receive an upfront payment, milestone payments and tiered royalties on net sales of resulting products and will handle manufacturing components specifically related to its proprietary technologies. ABL Bio is to handle the research, development, and commercialisation of any bispecific ADCs developed under the contract. Subsequent to the recent acquisition of Synaffix by Lonza, ABL Bio considers Lonza as a potential partner for clinical production of the antibody to be used in the first programme. This first programme is to start upon deal signature with options exercisable for up to two additional programmes over time.

Peter van de Sande, head of Synaffix, said, 'Under our collaboration with ABL Bio, we will focus on the discovery and development of cutting-edge bispecific ADCs. It underlines the vast and growing potential of Synaffix's innovative technology platforms for engineering smart, targeted biologics that deliver therapeutic payloads with best-in-class therapeutic index. Following our recent acquisition by Lonza, our collective capabilities now enable a more comprehensive offering that extends to essential early development and production services.'