The inherited retinal disease (IRD) community is buzzing with news of a significant collaboration aimed at advancing treatment options for Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) and other retinal conditions. London-based AviadoBio has entered into an exclusive option and license agreement with UgeneX Therapeutics, a Shanghai-based company, to develop and commercialize an investigational gene therapy called UGX-202. This partnership, announced on October 9, 2025, could bring new hope to individuals living with these challenging eye diseases.
Advancing Gene Therapy for Retinal Diseases
UGX-202 is an adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapy that utilizes visual optogenetics to deliver a light-sensitive protein to retinal cells. This innovative approach aims to reprogram preserved cells in the retina to function like photoreceptors, potentially restoring vision regardless of the underlying genetic cause of the disease. This is particularly significant for conditions like RP, which are caused by a wide variety of genetic mutations leading to the degeneration of rod and cone photoreceptors.
Retinitis Pigmentosa is a group of progressive IRDs affecting approximately 1.5 million people worldwide. It leads to symptoms such as night blindness, tunnel vision, and can ultimately result in total blindness. Currently, there is no cure for RP. The UGX-202 therapy is already in clinical development for RP, with plans for a second undisclosed indication to enter clinical trials by the end of 2025.
The Partnership Details
Under the terms of the agreement, AviadoBio has secured an option to obtain a worldwide exclusive license for the development and commercialization of UGX-202 outside of Greater China. If AviadoBio exercises this option, UgeneX could receive up to $413 million in upfront, research and development, and sales milestone payments, along with royalties on net sales. AviadoBio's CEO, Lisa Deschamps, stated that this deal represents a