Astellas, 4D Molecular Therapeutics enter license agreement for retinotopic vector
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Key takeaways:
- Astellas has gained the rights to utilize 4DMT’s R100 vector to deliver its unique genetic payloads.
- Astellas is targeting rare monogenic ophthalmic diseases.
Astellas Pharma and 4D Molecular Therapeutics have entered into a license agreement that grants Astellas the rights to utilize 4DMT’s intravitreal retinotopic R100 vector for treating rare monogenic ophthalmic diseases.
The agreement allows Astellas to use the adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector for “one genetic target implicated in rare monogenic ophthalmic disease(s),” with the option to add up to two additional targets after paying additional option exercise fees, according to a press release. Astellas will deliver its own unique genetic payloads using R100, which is designed to transduce the retina by penetrating the internal limiting membrane barrier.
Astellas will pay 4DMT $20 million upfront, and the agreement includes the potential for future option fees and milestones of up to $942.5 million. 4DMT is also entitled to “mid-single digit to double-digit, sub-teen royalties on net sales of all licensed products,” according to the release.
Additionally, all subsequent research, development, manufacturing and commercialization activities will be conducted by Astellas.
“This collaboration with Astellas, a leader in AAV gene therapy, continues to validate R100 for routine intravitreal low-dose delivery of genetic payloads for the treatment of retinal diseases,” David Kirn, MD, co-founder and CEO of 4DMT, said in the release. “With over 70 patients dosed to date with R100-based product candidates in wet age-related macular degeneration and rare ophthalmic diseases, this collaboration also demonstrates the modularity of the Therapeutic Vector Evolution platform resulting in efficient design and development of new intravitreal products. 4DMT retains rights to large market non-hereditary ophthalmic diseases.”
In a separate press release, Astellas announced that it has completed its acquisition of Iveric Bio through its indirect wholly owned subsidiary Berry Merger Sub Inc. Iveric is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Astellas.
Reference:
- Astellas completes acquisition of Iveric Bio. https://www.astellas.com/en/news/28116. Published July 12, 2023. Accessed July 12, 2023.
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