SCS licenses its stem cell technology for pharmaceutical research

Under the terms of the multi-year agreement, which is non-exclusive and retroactive, the undisclosed partner will gain access to the internal ribosome entry site (IRES) technology for use in its own R&D activities. Under the terms of the license, Stem Cell Sciences (SCS) will receive $750,000 over six years plus royalties.

SCS’s IRES technology enables researchers to monitor the activity of a particular gene of interest in living cells or tissues without blocking the normal function of the gene. In particular, IRES is important for evaluating the success of gene knock-outs or knock-ins in stem cells, which is crucial for the successful creation of transgenic mouse and rat disease models, the company said.

Alastair Riddell, CEO of SCS, said: “A key element of our commercial strategy is to realize both immediate and longer-term value from our extensive IP portfolio in the stem cell field through license agreements such as this. We are therefore very pleased to have signed this agreement with one of the providers of transgenic animal models to the pharmaceutical research industry.

“We are continuing discussions with other companies, which may benefit from the use of SCS technology in conjunction with their own, and are optimistic of signing further agreements in the coming months.”