Voyager Therapeutics, Transition Bio entered into drug discovery collab

Transition Bio and Voyager Therapeutics (VYGR) have entered into a drug discovery collaboration and license option agreement. The companies will collaborate to discover and develop novel, selective small molecules for people suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, ALS, and frontotemporal dementia, FTD, with TDP-43 pathology. TDP-43 pathology is common in many neurodegenerative diseases, including over 90% of ALS cases1 and up to 45% of FTD cases. Under the terms of the partnership, Transition Bio is responsible for the discovery and optimization of small molecules targeting TDP-43 until nomination of a development candidate, upon which Voyager will have an option to license the worldwide exclusive rights to develop and commercialize the program. Transition Bio has received a single-digit million-dollar upfront payment and is eligible to receive potential research, development, commercial and net sales milestone payments totaling up to $500M. Transition Bio is also eligible for high single-digit to low double-digit royalties on net sales.