What's new at AbCellera since last year?
AbCellera, continuing its trajectory in the antibody therapeutics space, has been building a comprehensive "engine" since 2012, encompassing people, technology, infrastructure, and intellectual property.
This foundational effort aims to transform ideas into clinical development opportunities, with a focus on challenging targets in the industry. The recent advancements in AbCellera’s platforms for T-cell engagers and GPCRs and ion channels highlight the company’s success in leveraging its technology to unlock new therapeutic possibilities. Notably, the company has initiated internal programs, such as those in metabolic and endocrine conditions and inflammation and autoimmunity, signaling a strategic evoution towards developing and commercializing its own medicines.
Can you detail the internal pipeline projects ABCL575 and 635?
AbCellera's internal pipeline includes promising projects like ABCL575 and ABCL635, targeting atopic dermatitis and metabolic and endocrine conditions, respectively. ABCL575 came from a collaboration with EQRx to co-develop an asset targeting Ox40 ligand. AbCellera believes it has the potential for success in a broad range of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions with high unmet medical need, including asthma, alopecia, systemic sclerosis, and inflammatory bowel disease. This asset , may enable less frequent dosing, which would be a differentiation in the market.ABCL635 represents a novel approach to treating endocrine and metabolic conditions, showcasing the potential for a first-in-class therapy with a high chance of clinical success based on compelling primate data and the well-validated nature of the target pathway.
How is the platform evolving, and what's the focus for the future?
AbCellera'sengine represents a significant investment over 12 years, aimed at bridging the gap between innovation and clinical development. The company is nearing the completion of its foundational build, with the final stages being capital investments in process development and manufacturing capabilities. Looking ahead, AbCellera is focusing on using its engine more extensively to advance its internal pipeline of drug programs. AbCellera’s partnerships, which have evolved from volume to value, emphasize strategic collaborations and co-development opportunities that synergize with AbCellera's capabilities to enhance drug discovery and development..
What is AbCellera's strategy for growth and achieving a top global biopharma status?
AbCellera's strategy for growth and achieving top global biopharma status hinges on advancing internal programs with blockbuster potential and engaging in strategic partnerships and co-development opportunities.
By focusing on quality and value in collaborations, the company aims to leverage its comprehensive engine to develop novel therapeutics. This approach includes investing in new modalities, such as antibody drug conjugates and radioisotope therapies, through strategic deals, and company creation. The long-term vision is to own substantial parts of breakthrough therapies, positioning AbCellera as a leader in the biopharmaceutical industry.
How is AbCellera perceived within the Canadian life sciences community?
In May 2023, AbCellera announced a CA$701 million co-investment with the Governments of Canada and British Columbia to build new capabilities and infrastructure to develop innovative antibody-based medicines and strengthen Canada’s leadership in clinical research, manufacturing, and drug development. Canada’s Minister for Innovation, Science and Industry noted that the government is “delivering on [its promise to build back the life sciences ecosystem] by partnering with AbCellera, a company at the cutting edge of technology.” This project and positive acknowledgments from within the Canadian life sciences community underscore AbCellera's unique contributions to the field, distinguishing the company and its leadership in the eyes of government, peers and industry associations.
What are your thoughts on the AI revolution in drug development?
Regarding the AI revolution in drug development, I'm somewhat skeptical of the overly optimistic views on its immediate impact. While I believe AI will play a significant role in various functions, including molecular design and clinical trial recruitment, it's important not to have unrealistic expectations about AI as a standalone solution for complex problems. I advocate for a more measured understanding of AI's potential, integrated with experimental capabilities and commercial infrastructure, to truly benefit the drug development processes.
What excites you in the current life sciences ecosystem?
What excites me in the current life sciences ecosystem are the advancements in obesity drugs by companies like Lilly and Novo Nordisk. These innovations are a significant shift towards addressing broader health issues such as cardiovascular disease and cancer, with the potential to greatly increase life expectancy and reduce healthcare costs. I find that antibody therapies have been the most productive area of investment and will be a significant part of new medicines.
Is there a shift towards focusing on metabolic and inflammatory diseases?
In terms of the shift towards focusing on metabolic and inflammatory diseases, I acknowledge the growing focus on these areas. There is substantial potential for treatments that can address the significant unmet medical need in those areas. The continuous learning about the immune system is a fertile ground for developing new therapies, and antibodies are at the forefront of this effort.
What is your take on the changing trends in medicine?
As for the changing trends in medicine, I'm optimistic about the opportunities to unlock new drug targets and classes. However, I caution against being overly influenced by shifting trends in the life sciences industry. The essential challenges and diseases have remained constant over time, and successful biotech companies have historically focused on delivering significant patient benefits. I emphasize the importance of leveraging technology and knowledge to address the most critical and persistent medical needs, rather than following short-lived industry trends.
