Merck Sharp and Dohme and Ablynx expand immuno-oncology alliance

Merck Sharp and Dohme has announced an expansion of its immuno-oncology collaboration with Ablynx to encompass additional targets.

The original collaboration was announced in February 2014 focused on the discovery and development of five predefined nanobody candidates directed towards immune checkpoint modulator targets for evaluation as immunotherapies for cancer.

Following the expansion, Ablynx will be responsible for the discovery and development of up to 12 additional nanobody programmes against individual protein targets and target combinations.

This four-year expansion will see Ablynx leading the research through to the in vivo preclinical proof-of-concept stage, after which Merck will have the option to advance specified lead candidates.

Dr Joseph Miletich, senior vice-president for discovery research and development at Merck Research Laboratories, said: "The expansion of this ongoing collaboration with Ablynx allows us to increase our ability to evaluate the potential of more immune checkpoint targets for the treatment of cancer."

The company also announced new immuno-oncology partnerships with Dynavax Technologies and Plexxikon earlier this year.