VectorY Therapeutics and Shape Therapeutics have entered an option and license agreement to advance vectorized antibody therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, according to the company. The deal grants VectorY exclusive rights to evaluate Shape’s SHP-DB1, a deep-brain-penetrating AAV5-derived capsid, for vectorized antibodies targeting three therapeutic areas. Upon successful evaluation, VectorY may obtain an exclusive license for commercialization.
Under the agreement, Shape will provide access to its proprietary capsid, while VectorY will lead development and commercialization efforts. Shape will receive an upfront payment and may be eligible for up to $1.2 billion in total fees and milestone payments, including regulatory, development, and commercial milestones, as well as tiered royalties on future sales.
VectorY said the collaboration will enable intravenous delivery of multiple programs, including VTx-003 for Huntington’s disease and VTx-005 for Alzheimer’s disease. The company claims the AAV5 capsid has advantages over other serotypes, including lower hepatotoxicity and broad central nervous system tropism.
SHP-DB1, part of Shape’s engineered AAV5 platform, has shown enhanced ability to reach deep brain regions while minimizing exposure to areas associated with toxicity. The companies said the partnership supports the advancement of safe, non-invasive therapies and leverages VectorY’s expertise in large-scale manufacturing of AAV5-based treatments.
VectorY’s pipeline also includes VTx-002, targeting TDP-43 in ALS, with investigational new drug submission planned by the end of 2025. The company said the agreement strengthens its neurodegenerative disease programs and expands access to transformative therapies for patients.
