Visgenx, Inc., a biotechnology company focused on developing gene therapies for degenerative retinal diseases, has extended its contract development and manufacturing collaboration with Charles River Laboratories for VGX-0111, a gene therapy being developed by Visgenx for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Following Visgenx’s Type B pre-IND meeting with the FDA in the summer of 2023, Charles River will begin manufacturing materials for VGX-0111 with the goal of initiating a clinical proof-of-concept in 2025. The material manufactured by Charles River will support a good laboratory practice (GLP) pre-clinical toxicology study and follows a prior adeno-associated virus (AAV) production collaboration.

“Manufacturing of gene therapies is highly complex and product quality is of paramount importance,” said William Pedranti, CEO, Visgenx. “We have the utmost confidence in Charles River to manufacture for VGX-0111 as we work toward our goal to bring treatment for those suffering from dry-AMD.”

“We are excited to expand our partnership with Visgenx on this gene therapy,” said Kerstin Dolph, corporate senior vice president, Biologics Solutions, Charles River. “The collaboration will tap into our premier gene therapy CDMO capabilities, and we are thrilled that our expertise will help to bring VGX-0111 one step closer to the clinic.”