Strategic collaboration combines advanced AAV-like particle technology with targeted oncology expertise to address unmet need in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hovione has entered into a strategic licensing and research collaboration with Firstgene Life Sciences to advance a novel virus-like particle (VLP) platform for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)—the most common form of liver cancer and the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally.

The agreement grants Firstgene an exclusive license to Hovione’s proprietary AAV-like gene vector platform, designed for tissue-specific gene expression. Hovione will also provide tailored preclinical R&D services to support the development of the HCC indication, which is being spearheaded by Firstgene, a portfolio company of Swiss incubator Xlife Sciences.

The VLP technology, which mimics the structure of adeno-associated viruses without using replication-competent viral elements, will be engineered to target specific carcinoma cell types. It includes a novel primer compound and is built on therapeutically validated AAVs. Hovione will oversee molecular engineering, production of customized particles, and execution of proof-of-concept studies.

“We are thrilled to see our new gene vector particle platform adopted by Firstgene and its forward-thinking leadership team,” said Dr. Jean-Luc Herbeaux, chief executive officer of Hovione. “This partnership is a testament to our mission of turning scientific complexity into real-world solutions that truly make a difference for patients.”

Dr. Alexander Zink, managing director of Firstgene Life Sciences, said the collaboration addresses a pressing therapeutic gap. “HCC, the most common liver cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related death, continues to represent a major unmet medical need. The combination of Hovione’s deep expertise in complex particle engineering and the commercialization strength of Xlife Sciences positions us to offer new, potentially safer and more effective therapy options.”

Hovione’s VLP platform is designed to overcome some of the key limitations of current gene therapies, including off-target effects and immunogenicity. The partnership aims to demonstrate the potential of highly targeted gene delivery in solid tumors and may pave the way for broader applications in precision oncology.