USC Stevens Center for Innovation is proud to announce our execution of an exclusive, worldwide license between biotechnology company AcuraStem and Takeda Pharmaceuticals. The novel therapeutic mechanism that set the precedent for this license agreement, PIKFYVE was initially discovered by USC Stem Cell Principal Investigator and AcuraStem co-founder, Dr. Justin Ichida, using patient-derived disease models. Licensed by USC Stevens Center, this agreement enables the development of therapeutics which further innovates the treatments made available for those with neurodegenerative diseases.
A patient-based biotechnology company leading efforts in how treatments are developed for neurodegenerative diseases, AcuraStem recently entered this license agreement with Takeda, a global biopharmaceutical company focused on the pursuit of bringing life-changing treatments for patients in need. This agreement permits the commercialization of AcuraStem’s PIKFYVE targeted therapeutics including AS-202, which is known as an innovative antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) for the treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). PIKFYVE also shows potential for treating additional TDP-43 proteinopathies, such as Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). AcuraStem’s strategy behind this focuses on addressing neurodegeneration by expelling toxic protein aggregates and protecting healthy neuronal function.
The commitment to continuous improvement of healthcare technology and treatment for patients ultimately creates space for new discoveries and developments, and USC Stevens Center is excited to be involved in the forefront of this scientific innovation.
To read more about this exclusive license agreement, click here.