Adverum Biotechnologies and Editas Medicine announced a collaboration to explore the delivery of genome editing medicines to treat up to five inherited retinal diseases.  This collaboration brings together Adverum’s next-generation adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors for use with Editas’ leading genome editing technologies to create a series of novel therapies for debilitating eye diseases that have poor therapeutic options.

“We are pleased to bring together our gene therapy capabilities with Editas’ CRISPR based approach to genome editing,” said Paul Cleveland, chief executive officer of Adverum Biotechnologies. “Our innovative vectors have the potential to deliver Editas’ genome editing components efficiently to the retina. This collaboration expands our opportunities to capitalize on our science, ophthalmology expertise and vector development know-how.”

“As we continue to invest in our genome editing platform, we are delighted to collaborate with Adverum Biotechnologies on next-generation AAV vectors,” said Katrine Bosley, president and chief executive officer of Editas Medicine. “Adverum brings a distinctive technology and experience base, and this collaboration aligns highly with our broader, multi-faceted delivery strategy.”

Under the terms of the agreement, Editas will pay Adverum an upfront fee of $1 million to evaluate Adverum next-generation vectors for use in clinical development.  Editas will support all preclinical activities related to this collaboration, with a portion of the upfront fee to be credited against this funding obligation. In addition, Editas will also pay an additional option exercise fee of $1 million for an exclusive license to Adverum’s next-generation AAV vectors for use in each indication chosen as part of the collaboration. Adverum also is eligible to receive development and commercial milestone payments, as well as royalties on any resulting commercialized Editas products that incorporate Adverum’s next-generation AAV vectors.