Currently, AAV manufacturing is time-consuming and expensive. As a result, it is difficult to develop therapies for diseases that require high doses and with large patient populations. As part of the collaboration, Gingko aims to apply its mammalian cell programming platform to improve the efficiency of AAV-producing plasmid vectors and cell lines, which could accelerate the development of Biogen's gene therapy candidates.

Under the agreement, Biogen will receive access to Ginkgo's proprietary cell programming platform and capabilities. Ginkgo will utilize its bioengineering facilities and resources with the aim of enhancing the AAV production titers of Biogen's gene therapy manufacturing processes. Ginkgo will receive an upfront payment of $5 million and is eligible for potential research, developmental, and commercial milestone payments up to an additional $115 million.

Biogen, Envisagenics collaborate on RNA splicing
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ViGeneron, Biogen to develop AAV-based gene therapies for eye disease
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Ginkgo Bioworks nabs $1.1B to fight COVID-19 in U.S.
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Totient advances anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies with funding, partnerships
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