By Fineline Cube 
Japan-based JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. (TYO: 4552) announced a licensing agreement with UK-based AstraZeneca’s (NASDAQ: AZN) rare disease subsidiary Alexion for its proprietary JUST-AAV capsid platform. The platform will be used in up to five gene therapy development programs, marking a significant step forward in the field of gene therapy.
Innovative JUST-AAV Technology
The JUST-AAV platform is an innovative technology that utilizes engineered adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. By incorporating mini-antibodies into the capsid surface to target specific receptors in tissues, organs, or the blood-brain barrier, the platform enhances targeted delivery, potentially improving the precision and safety of gene therapies.
Financial Terms of the Agreement
Under the agreement, JCR will receive an upfront payment and is eligible for milestone payments totaling up to USD 825 million. This includes up to USD 225 million for development milestones and up to USD 600 million for sales-based milestones. Additionally, JCR will receive tiered royalties based on the net sales of any resulting products.
History of Collaboration
This transaction marks the third collaboration between JCR and Alexion. Previous partnerships involved J-Brain Cargo technology for the development of neurodegenerative disease therapies and oligonucleotide therapeutics respectively.-Fineline Info & Tech