Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Metagenomi enter gene editing collaboration

Ionis Pharmaceuticals and Metagenomi announced that the companies have entered a collaboration that will leverage Ionis’ extensive expertise in RNA-targeted therapeutics and Metagenomi’s versatile next-generation gene editing systems to pursue a mix of validated and novel genetic targets that have potential to expand therapeutic options for patients. The companies will jointly conduct research aimed initially at delivering investigational medicines for up to four genetic targets. Ionis has the right to add four more targets upon achievement of pre-determined development milestones. Under the terms of the agreement, Ionis will pay $80M upfront to Metagenomi plus the potential for future milestone payments and royalties. Wells Fargo Securities acted as financial advisor to Ionis on the transaction.