Chiesi Group Signs $2B Deal With Arbor Biotechnologies for Global Liver-Targeted Gene Editing Therapies

Italian biopharmaceutical company Chiesi Group has entered a significant collaboration with US-based Arbor Biotechnologies, acquiring exclusive global rights to Arbor's gene editing therapy ABO-101, aimed at treating primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1), a rare genetic liver disease. The deal includes $115 million in upfront and near-term payments, with potential milestone payments up to $2 billion, plus royalties on future sales. Chiesi also gains access to Arbor's gene editing platform to develop additional liver-targeted therapies for rare diseases. ABO-101, currently in a Phase I/II clinical trial, uses CRISPR technology to target the HAO1 gene, aiming to reduce toxic oxalate buildup that causes severe kidney complications in PH1 patients. Both companies emphasize the transformative potential of gene editing to provide innovative therapeutic options for rare disease patients, with a shared commitment to advancing this research responsibly and effectively. The partnership reflects Chiesi's strategic expansion in rare disease treatment and Arbor's progress in clinical-stage gene therapies.