Gene-editing firm Intellia Therapeutics and biotech company ReCode Therapeutics have entered into a strategic collaboration aimed at developing genomic medicines for the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF).
CF is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CFTR gene that lead to the accumulation of thick mucus in the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. CF can cause life-threatening infections, respiratory failure, and other serious complications.
In a statement, the firms said that they will focus initial research efforts on therapeutic approaches for patients with CF who have limited or no treatment options available. The partners have the opportunity as part of the agreement to expand the scope of their collaboration during later phases.
The collaboration will pair Intellia’s proprietary CRISPR-based gene editing platform, including its DNA writing technology, with ReCode’s proprietary Selective Organ Targeting lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery platform to correct CF-causing mutations in the CFTR gene.
“Building on our CRISPR/Cas9 capabilities, we have made important progress advancing our proprietary DNA writing technology to enable a range of precise editing strategies. We are excited to combine our gene editing expertise and platform with ReCode’s novel lung-directed LNP delivery platform,” Intellia president and CEO Dr. John Leonard said.
Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Intellia will be responsible for the editing strategy design and for the research-grade components for the experimental therapies. ReCode will be responsible for preclinical and clinical development, as well as for global commercialization for certain programs arising from the collaboration. Intellia may exercise an option to lead commercialization in the U.S. for certain programs and will be eligible to receive agreed-upon development and commercial milestone payments, as well as royalties on potential sales.
