Biogen and Capsigen to Develop Novel AAV Capsids for up to $1.37 Billion

Biogen and Capsigen, a US-based adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector development company, announced on May 10, 2021 that they have entered into a strategic research collaboration to engineer novel AAV capsids to deliver gene therapies that address the underlying genetic causes of various central nervous system (CNS) and neuromuscular disorders for up to $1.37 billion.

Under the terms of the agreement, Capsigen will receive a $15 million upfront payment and is eligible to receive up to $42 million in potential research milestones, with an additional $1.25 billion in potential development and commercial payments, Biogen said in a company press release. Biogen will obtain an exclusive license under Capsigen’s proprietary technology for an undisclosed number of CNS and neuromuscular disease targets through the collaboration.

Additionally, as part of the agreement, Capsigen will utilize its TRADE platform and associated technologies to develop and classify novel AAV capsids designed to meet disease-specific transduction profiles.

“Through this collaboration, we aim to solve key technological challenges in the delivery of gene therapies to target tissues. One of our priorities for technology innovation is the discovery of AAV capsids with improved delivery profiles,” said Alfred Sandrock, Jr., MD, PhD, head of Research and Development at Biogen, in the press release. “We are investing for the long-term by building platform capabilities and advanced manufacturing technologies with the goal of accelerating our efforts in gene therapy.”

“At Capsigen, we believe the next revolution in gene therapy will be driven by engineered AAV capsids designed to meet disease-specific transduction profiles,” added John Bial, CEO, Capsigen, in the press release. “Biogen is a leader in neuroscience, and we are excited for the opportunity to work with them to potentially bring new treatments to patients. This collaboration is consistent with our strategy to work with world-class companies to develop the next generation of gene therapies.”

Source: Biogen