San Diego-based Ambrx, Inc., and Roche have entered into a collaboration agreement, in which Ambrx will use its proprietary technology to develop next generation proteins and peptides. The parties plan to use the technology platform to generate novel pegylated interferon alpha molecules.

The terms of the agreement provide for Roche to fund research and development of the products and to retain exclusive worldwide commercialization rights. In return, Ambrx will receive license fees, research funding, development milestone payments, and royalties on product sales. The Roche Venture Fund has also agreed to make an equity investment in Ambrx.