DTMT Network

Bayer AG and Mammoth Biosciences, Inc. have announced a strategic collaboration and option agreement for the use of Mammoth’s CRISPR systems to develop in vivo gene-editing therapies, on January 10, 2022.

Mammoth Biosciences’ gene-editing technology is considered to be a key enabling technology, as well as a stand-alone therapeutic modality. It is expected to significantly enhance Bayer’s efforts to develop transformative therapies for patients faster and strengthen the company’s recently established new cell and gene therapy platform, analysts say.

“Bringing together Mammoth’s novel CRISPR systems with our existing gene augmentation and our induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) platforms will allow us to unleash the full potential of our cell and gene therapy strategy,” said Stefan Oelrich, Member of the Board of Management, Bayer AG and President of the Bayer’s Pharmaceuticals Division.

“Partnering with Mammoth’s cutting edge scientific team is a fundamental pillar for our company to improve the lives of patients suffering from conditions that are currently still difficult to treat,” he added.

“We’re excited to be working together with Bayer, building on the technology leap of our novel CRISPR systems, along with Bayer’s expertise in successful drug development,” said Dr Peter Nell, Chief Business Officer and Head of Therapeutic Strategy at Mammoth.

“This joint effort has the potential to benefit patients by developing CRISPR-based approaches for the clinic with the appropriate urgency while ensuring scientific excellence and safety,” Dr Neil added.

Under the terms of the agreement, the two companies will start their collaboration with a focus on liver-targeted diseases, the announcement said.

Mammoth Biosciences will receive a 40 million USD and will be eligible to receive target option exercise fees as well as potential future payments in the magnitude of more than one billion USD upon successful achievement of certain research, development, and commercial milestones across five preselected in vivo indications with the first focus on liver-targeted diseases, a statement released by the company said.

In addition, Bayer will pay research funding and tiered royalties up to a low double-digit percentage of net sales. The companies are also exploring work on ex vivo projects on a nonexclusive basis, the statement added.