Adeona Pharma and Intrexon collaborate for synthetic DNA-based PAH therapy

USA-based Adeona Pharmaceuticals (NYSE Amex: AEN) and the Human Therapeutics Division of Intrexon Corp have entered into a  global exclusive channel collaboration to develop and commercialize a DNA-based therapeutic using Intrexon's UltraVector platform and RheoSwitch Therapeutic System for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Under the collaboration, Adeona will utilize Intrexon's advanced transgene engineering platform for the controlled, precise and continuous in vivo cellular production of prostaglandin synthase (PGIS), a specific effector enzyme that regulates the production of prostacyclin. PGIS expression is decreased in the lungs of PAH patients and deficiency in prostacyclin production is strongly implicated in PAH.

For its part, Intrexon will be responsible for technology discovery efforts and managing the patent estate as well as for certain aspects of manufacturing. Adeona will be responsible for conducting preclinical and clinical development of candidates, as well as for other aspects of manufacturing and the commercialization of the candidate product.