Vertex Pharmaceuticals and TreeFrog Therapeutics have teamed up to optimize cell therapies for type 1 diabetes (T1D). Through this agreement, Vertex has acquired an exclusive license to TreeFrog’s proprietary cell manufacturing technology, C-Stem.
C-Stem technology mimics the natural microenvironment, facilitating exponential cell growth in 3D. This collaboration will enable Vertex to scale up TreeFrog’s process for producing and amplifying cells for its T1D treatments. The goal is to generate large quantities of fully differentiated cells, enhancing the potential of these therapies.
“Our objective is to revolutionize T1D treatment, and our stem cell-derived, fully differentiated islet cell VX-880 Ph 1/2 program has demonstrated its potential,” said Morrey Atkinson Ph.D., Executive Vice President, Chief Technical Operations Officer, Head of Biopharmaceutical Sciences and Manufacturing Operations, at Vertex. “We are enthusiastic about exploring TreeFrog’s C-Stem to expand stem cell production and reach a greater number of individuals living with T1D.”
Frédéric Desdouits, Ph.D., CEO of TreeFrog Therapeutics, expressed the company’s excitement over the partnership with Vertex, a leader in T1D cell therapy. He emphasized the opportunity to apply and refine their C-Stem technology for a cutting-edge treatment that addresses a significant unmet need.
This collaboration aligns with TreeFrog’s strategy to make top-notch cell therapies available to millions worldwide, both through their therapeutic programs and partnerships with leading organizations like Vertex. TreeFrog looks forward to combining its expertise in cell therapy production and biology with Vertex’s renowned knowledge in T1D and cell therapy to deliver transformative therapies to patients.
Under the agreement, TreeFrog will receive an upfront payment, an equity investment from Vertex, and up to in development milestones related to a scaled-up process for fully differentiated islet cells. TreeFrog is also eligible for additional payments based on clinical, regulatory, and commercial achievements, including tiered single-digit royalties on up to two future products. Vertex will cover all research and development expenses associated with the collaboration and will be responsible for the development and commercialization of its cell therapies.
