Ultragenyx and Solid Biosciences Partner to Develop Gene Therapies for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Ultragenyx and Solid Biosciences have struck a deal to develop new gene therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

The collaboration will leverage Solid’s microdystrophin therapy for reducing muscle damage in DMD patients and Ultragenyx’s HeLa manufacturing platform for large-scale production of viral-vector gene therapies.

Under the agreement, Solid will receive an initial $40 million in equity and up to $255 million in potential milestone and royalty payments.

Novato, Calif.-based Ultragenyx specializes in developing therapies for rare diseases, while Cambridge, Mass.-based Solid Biosciences is focused on muscle biology.