GSK has been granted the exclusive rights to collaborate with Vir on the development of potential monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for the prevention or treatment of influenza. These include VIR-2482, an intramuscularly administered, investigational mAb, designed as a universal prophylactic for influenza A. GSK also will have the exclusive option to co-develop VIR-2482 after Vir completes and reports phase II trial outcomes, and it will share development costs on the development of all other influenza mAbs.

Additionally, they will collaborate to develop up to three neutralizing mAbs to target noninfluenza pathogens during a three-year research period.

This deal builds upon their 2020 agreement to research and develop therapies for coronaviruses. Under the agreement, GSK will make an upfront payment of $225 million and an equity investment in Vir of $120 million. If GSK exercises its option to co-develop VIR-2482 past phase II, it will pay an option fee of $300 million. GSK will also pay Vir up to $200 million based on the successful delivery of predefined regulatory milestones.