Evozyne, Inc. announced that it has entered into a strategic research collaboration and license agreement with Takeda to research and develop proteins that could be incorporated into next-generation gene therapies for up to four rare disease targets. This new agreement builds upon an earlier, separate agreement with Takeda and demonstrates the potential of Evozyne's protein engineering platform. In partnership with Takeda, Evozyne will create novel protein sequences for advancement as gene therapies.

At completion and review of certain research deliverables, Takeda has the option to obtain an exclusive license to develop and commercialize the novel protein sequences as part of its gene therapy program. Under the terms of the agreement, Evozyne will receive double-digit million dollars in upfront and research funding payments. The company is also eligible to receive future developmental, regulatory and commercial milestone payments of up to $400 million if all milestones are achieved in target indications over the course of the partnership plus tiered royalties on net sales of any commercial product resulting from the collaboration.

Evozyne's platform harnesses AI and machine learning technologies with the principles of evolution to uncover nature's rules. The company integrates its closed-loop learning, high throughput gene synthesis, and automated assays to mimic millions of years of natural evolution in the laboratory. This approach offers a new way to identify novel proteins and improve existing proteins to overcome barriers in disease treatment.

By bringing together Takeda's expertise in the rare disease space with Evozyne's strength in protein engineering, this collaboration looks to bring meaningful treatments to patients suffering from serious and life-threatening genetic diseases.