Tevard Biosciences, a privately-held biotechnology company pioneering tRNA-based gene therapies, and Zogenix, a global biopharmaceutical company developing and commercializing rare disease therapies, announced that the companies have entered into a collaboration to identify and develop novel tRNA-based gene therapies for Dravet syndrome and other genetic epilepsies.
Under the collaboration, Tevard will utilize its two unique tRNA-based discovery platforms focused on mRNA Stabilization and Nonsense Codon Suppression to discover and advance novel drug candidates for the treatment of Dravet syndrome and other genetic epilepsies. Zogenix will further develop the candidates through advanced preclinical studies and clinical development, and be responsible for worldwide commercialization.
Zogenix is responsible for funding the collaboration and, under the terms of the agreement, Tevard will receive an initial collaboration payment of $10 million, of which approximately $5 million has previously been paid by Zogenix. Tevard will also receive $5 million in the form of a convertible note. Tevard is also eligible to receive additional development, regulatory and commercial-related milestone payments ranging from $70 million to $100 million for each program, as well as tiered royalties on future net global sales on any commercial products that result from the collaboration.
Tevard’s unique tRNA technology platforms are designed to address underlying genetic mutations in a precise and regulated manner through the correction of nonsense mutations and the enhanced production of functional proteins. Together, these approaches hold promise to treat genetic disorders that are not well-suited to conventional gene replacement approaches.
“We are pleased to announce our collaboration with Zogenix, whose commitment to developing new treatments for Dravet syndrome and other genetic epilepsies is unparalleled,” said Daniel E. Fischer, Co-founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer at Tevard Biosciences. “Tevard has assembled a team of leading experts focused on developing our breakthrough tRNA-based gene therapy platforms. Our collaboration with Zogenix will advance our mission to bring transformative gene therapy products to those living with Dravet and other rare and severe genetic disorders.
“We are thrilled to be working with an innovative company like Tevard to develop promising next-generation therapies,” said Stephen J. Farr, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Zogenix. “Through this important new collaboration, we have reinforced our long-term commitment to transforming the lives of rare epilepsy patients and their families, and look forward to sharing updates as our work together progresses.”