ViGeneron and Regeneron Forge Strategic Collaboration to Develop Next-Generation Ocular Gene Therapy Using Novel vgAAV Platform

Recently, gene therapy company ViGeneron announced a research and development collaboration agreement targeting a specific indication with Regeneron. The two parties will develop and commercialize a gene therapy for an inherited retinal disease (IRD) based on ViGeneron’s engineered recombinant adeno-associated virus vectors (vgAAVs).

ViGeneron's vgAAV Vector Platform Aims to Overcome Limitations of Existing AAV-Based Gene TherapiesTo date, gene therapies targeting photoreceptor cells have relied on subretinal injection for vector delivery, carrying significant risks of retinal detachment and collateral damage, and often failing to achieve widespread photoreceptor transduction. vgAAV vectors enable effective transduction of target cells via intravitreal injection, allowing lateral spread and minimizing the risk of retinal detachment associated with conventional subretinal injections.

Under the collaboration agreement, Regeneron and ViGeneron will construct and validate a vgAAV-based candidate therapy for an undisclosed IRD target. ViGeneron will receive an upfront payment and research funding. Regeneron has the option to obtain an exclusive license for the development, commercialization, and manufacturing of vgAAV-based products targeting specific targets. ViGeneron is eligible to receive subsequent milestone payments as well as royalties on net sales of the product.

"We are excited to partner with Regeneron to potentially deliver an intravitreally administered gene therapy for patients suffering from inherited retinal diseases," said Dr. Man Xu, Co-Founder and CEO of ViGeneron. "This agreement with Regeneron further validates the potential of our vgAAV platform. Our goal is to overcome current limitations in gene therapy and bring a new treatment option to patients in need."

References:

[1] ViGeneron signs gene therapy strategic collaboration and option agreement with Regeneron for one inherited retinal disease target. Retrieved April 6, 2022, from https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2022/04/06/2417228/0/en/ViGeneron-signs-gene-therapy-strategic-collaboration-and-option-agreement-with-Regeneron-for-one-inherited-retinal-disease-target.html

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