Genflow Biosciences PLC (LSE:GENF, OTCQB:GENFF) has signed a long-term agreement with its Belgian research partner CER Groupe to support the development of its gene therapy programmes aimed at tackling ageing.
The Master Service Agreement sets out a framework for how the two companies will work together, expanding on a partnership that has already been running informally for several years.
The deal is intended to speed up Genflow’s early-stage development of experimental therapies by providing access to CER’s facilities and scientific expertise.
Genflow, listed in London and New York, is Europe’s only publicly traded company focused solely on longevity science. Its pipeline includes treatments based on genetic engineering, which aim to target the biological drivers of ageing.
CER, based in Belgium, is a private laboratory that offers support for companies working on biopharmaceuticals. It provides services such as manufacturing and testing of therapies in line with international safety and quality standards.
The two companies said they will jointly develop and assess Genflow’s drug candidates in the lab, using standardised project management tools to streamline the process and improve delivery times. They also plan to share scientific input to improve outcomes and reduce the risk of failure during development.
The agreement “provides a robust research and development framework to accelerate Genflow's pre-IND [Investigational New Drug] gene therapy programs,” the company said in a statement.
Genflow CEO Dr Eric Leire added: "Our partnership with CER has been instrumental in supporting our R&D efforts to date.
"Formalising this collaboration through the MSA will enable greater operational alignment and strategic agility as we continue to accelerate our pipeline."