Advancing Cardiovascular Health: Verve Therapeutics and Eli Lilly Collaborate on Gene Editing Program Targeting Lp(a)

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of death globally, accounting for approximately 32% of all fatalities annually. Among the various types of heart disease, coronary artery disease is the most prevalent, characterized by impaired blood flow to the heart. Complete blockage of blood flow can result in a heart attack. In a promising development, researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center have identified a potential solution using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing therapy. Their studies, conducted on a mouse model, indicate that this innovative approach not only shows promise in treating heart disease but also exhibits the ability to repair damaged tissue immediately after a heart attack. The pace of advancements at the industry level is gaining momentum.

Verve Therapeutics has taken a major stride in the battle against cardiovascular disease through an exclusive research collaboration with Eli Lilly and Company. This partnership aims to propel Verve's preclinical stage in vivo gene editing program, targeting lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)), a well-established and genetically validated independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), ischemic stroke, thrombosis, and aortic stenosis.
Lp(a) is a lipoprotein particle synthesized in the liver and circulates in the bloodstream. Elevated levels of Lp(a) have long been identified as a primary contributor to ASCVD, playing a significant role in the development and progression of cardiovascular complications. Unfortunately, current lifestyle modifications and approved lipid-lowering therapies have limited efficacy in reducing Lp(a) levels. The collaboration between Verve and Eli Lilly aims to bridge this treatment gap by utilizing gene editing technology to target and modify the genetic factors responsible for elevated Lp(a) concentrations.
As per the collaboration's terms, Verve will spearhead the research and development efforts of the Lp(a) program, including advancing it through Phase 1 clinical development. Upon successful completion of Phase 1, Eli Lilly will assume responsibility for further development, manufacturing, and commercialization of the program. This strategic alliance capitalizes on Verve's gene editing expertise and Lilly's distinguished experience in cardiometabolic disease, creating a formidable partnership to expedite the program's progress towards benefiting patients.
In addition to the strategic collaboration, Verve will receive $60 million, comprising an upfront payment and equity investment. Lilly will fund the research program costs through Phase 1 clinical trials. Verve also stands to gain potential milestone payments totaling up to $465 million, in addition to tiered royalties on global net sales. Furthermore, upon Phase 1 completion, Verve has the option to co-fund and share margins globally on the Lp(a) program.

BioIntel360 suggests that with elevated Lp(a) recognized as a causal driver of ASCVD, the collaboration between Verve Therapeutics and Eli Lilly represents a significant leap forward in combating cardiovascular disease. By harnessing the power of gene editing, this partnership holds the potential to offer a novel and effective treatment option for individuals with high Lp(a) levels, ultimately reducing the burden of cardiovascular complications and improving patient outcomes.

The collaboration between Verve Therapeutics and Eli Lilly represents a significant milestone in addressing lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) as a key driver of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). With the understanding that Lp(a) levels are primarily influenced by inheritance, gene editing offers an appealing approach to permanently reduce its concentrations. Verve's commitment to revolutionize ASCVD care, combined with Lilly's expertise in cardiometabolic disease, positions them to develop a transformative treatment option for individuals with elevated Lp(a) levels. This collaboration aims to address an unmet medical need and make a substantial impact in ASCVD management