Rentschler Biopharma, Ikarovec Collaboration Set to Speed Up Ophthalmic Therapy Development

Dilok – stock.adobe.com

A collaboration between global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), Rentschler Biopharma, and pre-clinical-phase gene therapy company, Ikarovec, has been unveiled in a June 1, 2023 press release. The partnership aims to accelerate the development of novel gene therapies for the treatment of ophthalmic disease.

Under the agreement, Rentschler Biopharma will support the bioprocess development of adeno-associated virus (AAV) material in its advanced therapy medicinal product (ATMP) site in Stevenage, UK. This AAV material will then be used for pre-clinical testing of Ikarovec’s novel gene therapy, developed for the treatment of geographic atrophy—an advanced form of age-related macular degeneration.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Rentschler Biopharma on our lead program. As we look to find new and better ways to treat ophthalmic diseases, we want to get it right and ensure that our product candidates can be scaled up appropriately for each development stage and, ultimately, for commercialization,” said Katie Binley, chief scientific officer of Ikarovec, in the press release. “Thus, it is critical to work with a team that has strong AAV experience in our field and that will be a true partner every step of the way.”

“We are excited to have the opportunity to collaborate with Ikarovec, which is developing truly innovative treatments for major ophthalmic indications. With our client-focused, highly tailored approach, our seasoned team will work closely with Ikarovec scientists to enable them to move forward into pre-clinical testing as rapidly as possible,” added Robert Panting, general manager of Rentschler’s ATMP business, in the press release. “By laying the foundation with process development and scale-up work, we aim to ultimately improve development timelines and increase the chances of success for our clients, who are working tirelessly to advance potentially groundbreaking treatments.”

Source: Rentschler Biopharma