Abcam

Abcam will develop custom protein-based reagents for targets identified by researchers funded by Cancer Research UK. 

UK-based Abcam has acquired Oregon-based life science research tool provider Marker Gene Technologies, the latest in a string of asset purchases.

Abcam said that acquisition will help it build out a discovery engine for developing novel edited cell lines and support its knockout validation initiative.

The deal includes Expedeon's core proteomics business, as well as its immunology-focused subsidiaries Innova Biosciences and TGR Biosciences.

UK-based Abcam has also taken an undisclosed equity stake in BrickBio, located in Boston, and will work with the company to further develop its platform.

EdiGene has developed a diploid library of 2,800 single clonal knockout cell lines, targeting 2,600 genes in commonly used human cancer cell lines.

Under the agreement, Abcam will create custom panels for NanoString's GeoMx DSP platform from its collection of 6,000-plus recombinant monoclonal antibodies.

In a note to investors, Cowen analyst Doug Schenkel called the decision "odd," and wondered if there would be more to come.

The company said its product revenues for the year rose 101 percent while its services revenues rose 7 percent.

The offer put a value of 181 pence per share on Horizon's stock, representing a premium of approximately 26 percent to Horizon's closing share price on May 1.