Global law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer (‘Freshfields’) has advised ViGeneron GmbH, a next-generation gene therapy company, on a target-specific strategic collaboration and option agreement with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. (‘Regeneron’). The cooperation aims to develop and commercialize a gene therapy product based on ViGeneron’s novel engineered recombinant adeno-associated virus vectors (vgAAVs) to treat an inherited retinal disease (IRD).

Under the terms of the research collaboration, Regeneron and ViGeneron will create and validate vgAAV-based therapeutic candidates for one undisclosed IRD target. ViGeneron receives an upfront payment and research funding. Regeneron has an option for an exclusive license to develop, commercialize and manufacture the vgAAV-based product for the specific target. ViGeneron is eligible to receive an option exercise fee, development and commercial milestone payments, plus royalties on net sales.

The Freshfields team comprised Partner Jochen Dieselhorst and Principal Associate Philipp Lehmann (both Life Sciences, Hamburg).