Asterion signs research and option agreement with Genzyme

Under the terms of the agreement, Genzyme will gain access to elements of Asterion’s IP portfolio surrounding a specific protein target and will perform research work designed to look at the creation of a long-acting and potent version of an undisclosed protein of mutual commercial interest.

In addition to applying its technologies to novel targets, Asterion has said that it is focusing on developing third-generation Asterion Fusion Technology therapeutic products that address unmet clinical and commercial needs in large markets where the targets are validated, the clinical development path is known and the commercial opportunity is clearer.

If developed successfully, Asterion’s future products have the potential to be used to treat diseases such as anaemia, neutropenia, multiple sclerosis, growth disorders and autoimmune disorders, the company added.

Raymond Barlow, CEO of Asterion said: “We are pleased to have signed this agreement with Genzyme, which is one of the largest and most experienced global biotechnology firms. This deal endorses and demonstrates the interest that corporate partners have shown towards our ProFuse protein engineering approach and the Asterion Fusion Technology therapeutic proteins that are derived from it.”