In order to bolster its oncology pipeline, AbbVie entered into multiple agreements focusing on targeted monoclonal antibodies. As well as gaining a late-stage asset, rovalpituzumab tesirine (Rova-T), for relapsed small cell lung cancer (SCLC) from its US$5.8 B acquisition of Stemcentrx, AbbVie also paid an aggregate upfront payment of US$70 M for early-stage antibody candidates from two start-ups, CytomX and Argen-X. AbbVie further underlined its commitment to the oncology sector in the long-term by announcing a 5-year research collaboration with University of Chicago for advanced solid tumours.