Ionis, Roche Agree to Terms on Two Early-Stage RNA Programs

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Ionis Pharmaceuticals revealed that it has agreed to terms on a deal with Roche for two undisclosed early-stage programs for RNA-targeting investigational medicines for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease. Under terms of the agreement, Roche will be responsible for clinical development, manufacturing, and commercialization of the medicines pending regulatory approval, and will also obtain exclusive rights worldwide. Ionis will be in charge of advancing the two programs through pre-clinical studies, receiving an upfront payment of $60 million, with the potential to receive development, regulatory and commercial milestone payments, and tiered royalties.

"We are excited to expand our partnership with Roche, a global leader in developing and delivering innovative treatments to patients," said Brett P. Monia, PhD, CEO, Ionis. "With this new collaboration, we are joining forces to accelerate the discovery and development of novel therapies for people living with Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease globally. Collaborating on these two programs enables Ionis to advance our wholly owned programs, including those in neurology, aligned with our strategic priorities."

Reference: Ionis enters agreement with Roche for two novel RNA-targeted programs for Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease. PR Newswire. September 27, 2023. Accessed September 27, 2023. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ionis-enters-agreement-with-roche-for-two-novel-rna-targeted-programs-for-alzheimers-disease-and-huntingtons-disease-301939627.html