Merck has entered a collaboration with California-based biotech startup Infinimmune to discover and develop novel human antibody therapeutics using Infinimmune's AI-driven platform.145
The deal is worth up to $838 million in upfront and milestone payments, with Merck retaining exclusive rights to develop and commercialize successful candidates.456
Infinimmune handles initial antibody discovery and optimization, while Merck manages clinical development, regulatory approval, and commercialization.1
The partnership was announced on March 31, 2026, targeting undisclosed disease areas, potentially including immunology targets like IL-22 and IL-13.14
Clinical trials for candidates are expected within 18-24 months, pending preclinical success.1
Sources:
1. https://nationaltoday.com/us/ca/alameda/news/2026/03/31/infinimmune-partners-with-merck-to-develop-novel-antibody-treatments/
4. https://www.pharmexec.com/view/merck-enters-838-million-research-development-collaboration-infinimmune
5. https://www.biopharmadive.com/news/merck-infinimmune-antibody-research-deal/816119/