VectorY secures option to use Shape’s AAV capsid

Dutch biotech VectorY Therapeutics has signed an option and license agreement with US firm Shape Therapeutics to explore use of Shape’s engineered AAV5-derived capsid, SHP-DB1, across its pipeline of vectorized antibody therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. The deal, announced Thursday, reflects industry-wide efforts to improve brain delivery of gene therapies.

The agreement gives VectorY exclusive rights to test the non-invasive capsid on three targets. Preclinical studies in non-human primates have shown SHP-DB1 can penetrate deep brain regions while reducing exposure to areas associated with AAV toxicity, such as the liver and dorsal root ganglion.

Shape will receive an upfront payment and could earn up to $1.2 billion in milestones and royalties, including $338 million for rare disease projects and $504 million for non-rare disease candidates.