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Novartis Bets Big On Next-Gen Gene Therapy With Voyager Pact

Pays $54m Upfront To Access Capsids For Brain Diseases

 
• By Kevin Grogan

The Swiss giant has gained access to next-generation AAV capsids that could reach cells in the brain, something that has not been possible with technologies used to date.

Adeno-associated virus serotype 1. Virus is used as a vector for gene therapy
Novartis keen on Voyager's novel AAV capsids • Source: Shutterstock

Novartis AG has reaffirmed its commitment to the gene therapy space by accessing Voyager Therapeutics, Inc's next-generation adeno-associated virus (AAV) platform in a deal that could be worth up to $1.75bn.

The Swiss major is paying $54m upfront to license novel AAV capsids generated from Voyager’s RNA-driven TRACER discovery platform for use with three undisclosed CNS targets, plus an option to access capsids for two additional targets. The deal could prove to be highly lucrative for Cambridge, MA-based Voyager which is eligible for another $1

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Bluebird, Private Equity Firms Look To Sweeten Buyout Deal

 
• By Alaric DeArment

Shareholders are being offered a flat fee of $5 per share as an alternative to $3 plus a contingent value right, which could be a more attractive option if they want cash up front.

Which Firms Are Most Exposed To Prasad’s Possible Accelerated Approvals Clampdown?

 
• By Andrew McConaghie

Vaccine and accelerated approvals are expected to face greater scrutiny under new CBER leader Vinay Prasad, but he has promised “no light switch change” to policy, giving some reassurance to companies whose share prices have been battered.

Abeona Sets $3.1m Price For Rare Skin Disorder Gene Therapy

 
• By Joseph Haas

Abeona plans to offer an outcomes-based payment model for Zevaskyn, which likely will see complementary use with Krystal’s Vyjuvek in recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa patients.

Verve Moves Toward Lilly Opt-In For PCSK9 Program With Phase Ib Results

 
• By Alaric DeArment

The company posted positive initial results from the Heart-2 trial in HeFH and CAD, with strong LDL cholesterol lowering and a clean safety profile.

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