Pfenex enters licensing deal with Merck to co-develop experimental vaccine

Pfenex inks vaccine development deal with Merck

SAN DIEGO — Biotech company Pfenex said Monday it has licensed certain technology to Merck & Co. for the co-development of potential vaccines.

Under terms of the agreement Pfenex is eligible to receive up to $52 million in direct payments, as well as royalties on any sales of vaccines.

Scientists from both companies will collaborate on proteins strains used in vaccine development.