Voyager Therapeutics (VYGR) has signed an agreement through which Pfizer Inc. (PFE) may exercise options to license novel capsids generated from Voyager's TRACER screening technology to treat certain neurologic and cardiovascular diseases.

Under terms of the deal, Pfizer will have the right to evaluate novel capsids selected for central nervous system and cardiac tropisms from Voyager's TRACER platform and to exercise options to license capsids for exclusive use in Pfizer's development of adeno-associated virus gene therapies incorporating two undisclosed transgenes. The transgenes will be distinct from those planned for Voyager's internal pipeline. Voyager will retain global rights to all licensed capsids for use with other transgenes and to all other applications of its TRACER technology, the company said.

In exchange, Voyager will receive $30 million upfront and is entitled to receive up to $20 million in exercise fees for two options, exercisable by Pfizer within 12 months of signing. Voyager will also be eligible to earn up to $580 million in total development, regulatory, and commercial milestones associated with licensed products incorporating the two transgenes together with a Voyager licensed capsid. Voyager is also eligible to receive mid- to high-single-digit tiered royalties on net sales of Pfizer's products incorporating the licensed capsids.

Shares of Voyager Therapeutics are up nearly 37% in recent Wednesday premarket activity.
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