Gene Therapy Deals, Collaborations, & Partnerships with Astellas' Richard Wilson
Nov 21, 2023
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Richard Wilson, Senior VP at Astellas, discusses gene therapy deal-making, Astellas' strategic approach post Audentes acquisition, building gene therapy infrastructure, advancements in gene therapy, strategic focus areas like genetic regulation and immuno-oncology, and the importance of partnerships in the cell and gene therapy sector.
Astellas aims to develop an end-to-end gene therapy unit focusing on platform, pipeline, and people.
Gene therapy landscape expects major clinical data releases and global accessibility challenges in the coming months.
Deep dives
Stellis' Aim to Build a World-Class Gene Therapy Infrastructure
Stellis' ambition in gene therapy is to create an end-to-end business unit focused on translating genetic potential into marketed products to benefit patients. The three main areas of focus are platform, pipeline, and people. The company has a strong AAV platform and infrastructure supporting its pipeline growth, including partnerships with other companies like Kate Therapeutics and TASER gene therapies to enhance its offerings.
Trends and Excitement in Gene Therapy in the Next 12-18 Months
In the next 12-18 months, the field of gene therapy anticipates significant clinical data releases in diseases like dementia and Parkinson's, along with growing approvals for gene therapy products. Achieving global launches remains a challenge, emphasizing the importance of making gene therapy accessible to patients. Regulatory updates and advancements in technology, such as capsid engineering, continue to shape the landscape of gene therapy.
Estellis' Strategic Approach to Research and Development
Estellis follows a focus area approach in R&D, with each focus area having a clear understanding of disease biology, modality, and addressing unmet needs. The company has five focus areas, with each led by a primary focus lead. This structure allows for dedicated leadership teams within the R&D organization to drive focused research efforts and efficient resource allocation.
Richard Wilson, Senior Vice President, Primary Focus Lead, Genetic Regulation at Astellas sat down with Cell & Gene: The Podcast's Erin Harris at ARM's 2023 Meeting on the Mesa to discuss the gene therapy deal making landscape as well as Astellas' recent deals and collaborations. They also discussed Astellas' strategic approach since having acquired Audentes back in 2020.