Takeda and enGene ally on gastrointestinal therapy research

Takeda has announced a new collaboration with enGene to discover, develop and commercialise novel therapies for specialty gastrointestinal diseases.

The work will take advantage of enGene's Gene Pill gene delivery platform, as well as its expertise and intellectual property position, to deliver therapeutic genes to cells of the gut lining in the most effective way.

Under the terms of the deal, enGene will develop up to two undisclosed targets selected by Takeda through pre-clinical proof of concept and IND enabling studies, with Takeda retaining an option to exclusively license the global rights for the product candidates.

If this option is taken up, Takeda will be responsible for all clinical development and commercialisation of the products, while enGene will receive an upfront payment, reimbursement of all research costs, and future milestone fees and royalties.

Takeda has also agreed to collaborate with enGene in developing Gene Pill into a platform for the oral delivery of antibodies.

Gareth Hicks, gastroenterology discovery research head at Takeda, said: "We aim to have a positive impact on patients' lives by translating unique innovations in science into life-changing medicines to treat gastrointestinal disorders."