Vical Licenses 'Naked DNA' Technology to Aventis Pharma

Under a recently signed licensing agreement, Vical Inc. (San Diego) granted Aventis Pharma (Parsippany, NJ) the rights to use Vical's naked DNA gene transfer technology to deliver a growth factor gene for which Aventis Pharma holds rights. Under terms of the agreement, Vical received an initial payment of $1.5 million; Vical could also receive milestone payments and royalties if products advance through commercialization.

Naked DNA is Vical's patented method for delivering genes into cells in the body without using a virus. Several companies have tested naked DNA delivery of angiogenic growth factor genes in tissues where disease has restricted blood flow. Administration of an angiogenic growth factor gene may stimulate localized growth of new blood vessels, which may restore blood flow to the affected areas.

In 1999, Aventis Pharma initiated a clinical trial testing naked DNA delivery of a gene encoding an angiogenic growth factor in patients with critical limb ischemia, a severe loss of blood flow caused by blockage of arteries feeding the foot and lower leg.

Vical Inc. is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases, and metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners.

For more information: Vical Inc., 9373 Towne Centre Dr., Ste. 100, San Diego, CA 92121-3027. Tel: 858-453-9900. Fax: 858-646-1150.

Edited by Jim Pomager