Dyno Therapeutics, a biotech company applying artificial intelligence (AI) to gene therapy, has entered a collaboration and license agreement with Roche to apply Dyno’s CapsidMap platform for the development of next-generation adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors for gene therapies for central nervous system (CNS) diseases and liver-directed therapies for the portfolio of both Roche and Spark Therapeutics, a member of the Roche Group.

Dyno’s proprietary CapsidMap platform represents a transformative approach to the identification of novel AAV capsids—the cell-targeting protein shell of viral vectors—optimizing tissue targeting and immune-evading properties, in addition to improving packaging capacity and manufacturability.

Dyno will be responsible for the design of novel AAV capsids with improved functional properties for gene therapy, while Roche and Spark Therapeutics will be responsible for conducting preclinical, clinical and commercialization activities for gene therapy product candidates using the novel capsids. Dyno will receive an undisclosed upfront payment and if successful, is eligible to receive additional payments during the research phase of the collaboration as well as clinical and sales milestone payments and royalties for any resulting products. The aggregate potential value of future milestone payments to Dyno may exceed $1.8 billion.

“This new partnership represents Dyno’s largest collaboration to date, and we are excited to work with Roche and Spark Therapeutics to expand the frontier of gene therapies for the central nervous system and liver,” said Eric Kelsic, co-founder and chief executive officer, Dyno. “The Dyno, Roche and Spark teams share a bold vision for gene therapy and believe that enhancing vectors that deliver these therapies is key to developing new treatments for patients in need. Partnering is a fundamental element of Dyno’s business strategy, and the continuing interest by leading gene therapy developers is accelerating our growth plans and positive impact on patients.”

James Sabry, head of Roche pharma partnering, said, “We strongly believe in the potential of gene therapy and are excited to bring together experts from Roche, Spark and Dyno to develop next-generation gene therapies. Dyno’s innovative AI-powered approach to designing optimized AAV vectors will further complement and build on our progress in gene therapy. We look forward to leveraging Dyno’s technology to develop new, innovative treatments for patients across CNS and liver-directed therapies.”