Abcam plc, a global leader in the supply of life science research tools,  has signed a partnership agreement with the Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), a research institute under the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore.

Under the terms of the agreement, Abcam will develop a range of RabMAb antibody pairs against targets jointly selected by IMCB and Abcam, to be used by both organisations in the development of immunoassays for life scientists working in both research and in diagnostics.

Combining the biological research expertise at IMCB with Abcam’s RabMAb technology will enable rapid production of antibody pairs with a high level of affinity, specificity and validation. This will include antibody pairs to some of the most important targets in cytokine research, and to exciting novel proteins. The first antibody pairs are expected to be completed by August 2015 and available to the research market later in the year. This project represents the beginning of a planned multi-year collaboration between IMCB and Abcam.

Alan Hirzel, CEO, Abcam, said: “We’re excited about the opportunities that this collaboration will bring to life scientists. We are global leaders in making high quality antibodies with our RabMAb technology. By continuing to establish important collaborations, we have the chance to extend our reach to new areas of research. IMCB’s unique R&D capabilities put us in an excellent position to quickly bring innovative immunoassays to global life science researchers, to accelerate the pace of scientific discoveries.”

Professor Wanjin Hong, executive director of IMCB, said: “We’re delighted to have signed this agreement. The collaboration will enable IMCB to use Abcam’s proven RabMAb technology and apply it in our R&D programmes to advance future development and adoption of immunoassays in immunodiagnostics and therapeutics. In view of the significant R&D expertise and growing importance of the biologics industry in Singapore, this collaboration will help drive antibody discovery and development activities in the region. I am confident that A*STAR and the scientific community will benefit from this promising partnership.”