LAMP-vax is a next-generation DNA vaccine which can stimulate an immune response against a particular protein, injecting the DNA encoding the protein rather than the protein itself.
The LAMP-vax technology claimed to improve the efficacy of DNA vaccines and it has the ability to make DNA vaccines work, which potentially allows effective vaccinations for a wide spectrum of diseases.
Earlier this January, Immunomic and Astellas entered into an exclusive license agreement for Japan to develop and commercialize ASP4070, previously known as JRC2-LAMP-vax, designed to treat allergies induced by Japanese red cedar pollen.
Under this deal, Astellas has started a Phase I trial of ASP4070 in Japan this year.
The firms noted that irrespective of the new deal, this initial agreement remains in effect.
Astellas has now acquired the exclusive worldwide rights to research, develop, manufacture and commercialize any potential LAMP-vax products.
These products are designed to treat or prevent human allergic diseases, including, among other things, ARA-LAMP-vax for the treatment or prevention of peanut allergy as well as other research-stage programs for food or environmental allergies.
Upon completion of the new agreement, Immunomic will receive an upfront payment of $300m and be entitled to receive 10% royalties of net sales of the potential products.
Immunomic Therapeutics CEO Dr William Hearl said: "We are excited that Astellas recognized the potential of LAMP-vax technology to usher in a new era in vaccination against common and serious allergies and are thrilled to be partnering with them again.
"With this new partnership, Astellas can explore the LAMP-vax platform for allergic disease, while we continue applications in other areas, like cancer immunotherapy."
The company noted that the LAMP-vax platform has the potential to improve the use of vaccines across a wide variety of diseases.
Compared to conventional DNA vaccines, the LAMP-vax includes a short DNA sequence encoding the Lysosomal Associated Membrane Protein (LAMP).
Image: Immunomic and Astellas will use the LAMP-vax technology to develop new drugs to treat or prevent all allergic diseases. Photo: courtesy of Michelle Meiklejohn/ freedigitalphotos.net.