Verge Genomics and Ferrer have embarked on a strategic partnership to advance the development and potential commercialization of VRG50635, a groundbreaking drug candidate aimed at treating both sporadic and familial forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This collaboration combines Verge Genomics’ pioneering AI-powered, all-in-human platform CONVERGE® for drug discovery and development, with Ferrer’s extensive international experience in clinical development, manufacturing, and commercialization.
VRG50635, a potential best-in-class, small molecule PIKfyve inhibitor, identified through Verge’s AI-enabled platform from diseased human tissues, represents a novel therapeutic approach for ALS. The agreement grants Ferrer exclusive rights to co-develop and commercialize VRG50635 for ALS in Europe, Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and Japan, while Verge retains all development and commercialization rights in the USA and other regions outside the collaboration.
Alice Zhang, CEO and co-founder of Verge Genomics, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Ferrer’s expertise in navigating global clinical and regulatory landscapes. This collaboration underscores the value of Verge’s CONVERGE® platform in rapidly identifying novel targets for complex diseases and translating them into clinical applications.
Ferrer’s commitment to delivering transformative solutions to individuals living with severe diseases aligns with its mission to utilize business as a force for social justice. Mario Rovirosa, CEO at Ferrer, emphasized the importance of this partnership for the ALS community and expressed confidence in VRG50635 as a promising treatment option. Oscar Pérez, Chief Scientific Officer at Ferrer, also noted the significance of adding VRG50635 to Ferrer’s growing portfolio of treatments for rare neurological disorders, reaffirming their dedication to patients suffering from ALS.
VRG50635 marks a significant milestone as one of the inaugural drugs, entirely discovered and developed through an AI-enabled platform, to enter clinical trials. It highlights the potential of combining advanced technology with pharmaceutical expertise to accelerate the development of innovative treatments for complex diseases.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Ferry, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
