GSK plc (LSE/NYSE: GSK) and CureVac N.V. (Nasdaq: CVAC) have announced a restructuring of their existing collaboration into a new licensing agreement, aimed at optimizing investment and focus in mRNA development.

Highlights

• GSK acquires global rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize mRNA candidate vaccines for influenza and COVID-19, including combinations.
• CureVac receives €400 million upfront and stands to earn up to €1.05 billion in milestone payments, along with tiered royalties, replacing all previous financial terms.
• GSK gains full control over vaccine development and manufacturing under the new agreement, aiming to leverage mRNA technology for rapid vaccine adaptation.
• CureVac retains exclusive rights to additional infectious disease targets and freedom to develop mRNA vaccines independently.

Details of the Agreement

Since 2020, GSK and CureVac have collaborated on mRNA vaccines for seasonal influenza, COVID-19, and avian influenza. Phase II trials for influenza and COVID-19 vaccines have shown promising data, utilizing CureVac’s second-generation mRNA technology.

Under the terms, GSK assumes global responsibilities for development, manufacturing, and commercialization of these vaccines. The agreement underscores GSK’s commitment to advancing vaccine platforms tailored to various pathogens.

CureVac will receive an upfront payment of €400 million and could earn up to €1.05 billion in milestones and royalties. This agreement supersedes all prior financial arrangements.

Both companies emphasize the adaptability of mRNA technology in responding to evolving viral strains, with GSK continuing to enhance its mRNA capabilities through strategic investments and partnerships.

Completion of the agreement is contingent upon regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

Comments from Leadership

Tony Wood, Chief Scientific Officer at GSK, expressed enthusiasm for advancing flu and COVID-19 vaccine programs, aiming to set new standards with mRNA technology.

Alexander Zehnder, CEO of CureVac, highlighted the collaborative success in developing late-stage vaccine candidates and the financial strength afforded by the new agreement.

This restructuring does not impact CureVac’s ongoing patent litigation against Pfizer/BioNTech.