Astellas and AviadoBio announce exclusive option and license agreement for gene therapy AVB 101 targeting frontotemporal dementia and other indications

FTD is a devastating form of early-onset dementia that typically leads to death within three to 13 years from diagnosis.  People with FTD commonly experience a rapid decline in executive function (attention control, working memory, problem-solving etc.), uncharacteristic behaviors, loss of language, apathy, and reduced mobility. It is an important cause of dementia in those under the age of 65 and is often underrecognized, and misdiagnosed. 

Under the terms of the agreement, Astellas will have the option to receive a worldwide exclusive license for the development and commercialization rights to AVB 101 in FTD-GRN and other potential indications. Astellas will make a $20 million equity investment and up to $30 million in upfront payments for the option to license AVB 101. AviadoBio is also eligible to receive up to $2.18 billion in license fees and milestone payments plus royalties if Astellas exercises its option. AviadoBio Ltd. and Astellas Pharma Inc. announced an exclusive option and license agreement for AVB 101, an investigational, AAV-based gene therapy in Phase 1/II development for patients with frontotemporal dementia with progranulin mutations (FTD-GRN).