Vect-Horus has entered a research collaboration and exclusive licence option agreement with Servier to develop targeted oligonucleotide therapies for rare central nervous system (CNS) diseases.

The collaboration will combine Vect-Horus’ VECTrans technology platform with Servier’s oligonucleotide therapeutics to improve delivery of treatments across biological barriers to the brain, one of the key challenges in developing medicines for neurological disorders.

Under the agreement, the companies will jointly carry out an initial research evaluation programme. Following this phase, Servier will have the exclusive option to advance selected programmes into clinical development and commercialisation.

Financial terms were not disclosed. Vect-Horus said it will receive research and exclusivity fees during the option period and, should Servier exercise its option, will become eligible for an upfront payment, development, regulatory and commercial milestone payments, together with single-digit royalties on future commercial sales.

Targeted delivery of oligonucleotide therapies to the brain has become an increasing focus for the biotechnology industry as developers seek to overcome the blood-brain barrier, which prevents many therapeutics from reaching the central nervous system. Improved delivery technologies could expand the use of oligonucleotide medicines for neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders, where effective treatment options remain limited.

Alexandre Tokay, co-founder and chief executive officer of Vect-Horus, said: “This agreement further validates the potential of our VECTrans platform to overcome delivery challenges in the CNS and expand therapeutic opportunities for patients suffering from serious neurological diseases.”

The collaboration builds on Vect-Horus’ expertise in developing molecular vectors designed to transport therapeutic molecules and imaging agents to specific organs, including the brain. The company’s delivery platform is intended to improve the ability of medicines to cross biological barriers while maintaining targeted distribution.

Following the research evaluation, Servier will decide whether to exercise its exclusive option to continue development of selected programmes. If exercised, the partnership would progress towards clinical development and potential commercialisation of therapies for rare neurological diseases.

Nitza Thomasson, global head of neurology at Servier, said: “Progress in rare neurological disorders depends on bringing together complementary expertise and a shared sense of purpose. We are excited to work alongside Vect-Horus to unlock the potential of this technology and help advance transformative oligonucleotide therapies for patients.”

The agreement reflects continued investment across the pharmaceutical industry in technologies designed to improve delivery of medicines to the brain. As oligonucleotide therapeutics gain momentum in neurological research, companies are increasingly seeking delivery platforms that can help overcome the biological barriers that have historically limited treatment of CNS diseases.