Switching into Gene Therapy Expression

Biotechnology company Flip Gene Therapeutics has signed an agreement with Aptamer Group to combine its inducible gene therapy platform with the use of Optimer binder technology.

Under the agreement Aptamer will develop binders to several small molecule targets for incorporation into the partner’s gene therapy platform with the goal of developing pharmacologically inducible gene therapeutics controllable with a gene switch.

Gene therapies treat diseases and conditions through the delivery of genetic material; however, major gene therapy platforms do not allow for precise control of gene expression after the therapy is administered.

Optimer binders used as a component of a gene switch could enable responsive gene expression controlled by dosing certain small molecule drugs.

The commercial terms of the agreement include initial upfront payments for Optimer development, with the potential for further licensing payments for the developed Optimer binders, and development and commercial milestone payments upon clinical and commercial success.

Dr Arron Tolley, CEO of Aptamer Group said: "I am delighted to have established this agreement to develop Optimer binders to enable inducible treatments in this exciting field of gene therapy. We will be working closely with our partner Flip Gene Therapeutics on developing and assessing the Optimer binders to function as part of their gene therapy platform. The interest in pursuing Optimer binders as part of their therapeutic modality offers a strong endorsement of the technology."

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