January 5, 2021 -- ViGeneron and Biogen have signed a global collaboration and licensing agreement to develop and commercialize gene therapy products based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors to treat inherited eye disease.
The companies will use ViGeneron's proprietary vgAAV, engineered AAV capsids to efficiently transduce retinal cells via intravitreal injections. This gene therapy platform allows for less invasive treatment administration.
Within the collaboration, ViGeneron will optimize and validate in vitro therapeutic candidates for an undisclosed target to treat inherited eye disease. Biogen has the right to add an additional reserved target within two years after the effective date. The companies will work together on in vivo proof-of-concept studies. Biogen will then be responsible for all further development and commercialization activities for the selected therapeutic candidates.
ViGeneron will receive an upfront payment and research and development funding of an undisclosed amount for the agreed work plan. In addition, ViGeneron will be eligible to receive development, regulatory, and commercial milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties on net commercial sales of products arising from the collaboration.