Horizon Discovery Group plc (Horizon), the world leader in the application of gene editing technologies, announced a new licensing agreement with an unnamed commercial partner (Partner) for access to Horizon bioproduction cell lines. The subscription deal, a first of its kind for Horizon, is valued at a minimum of £500,000.

Under the terms of the license, the Partner will gain immediate access to one of Horizon’s cutting-edge engineered cell lines (CHO SOURCE GS Null cell line), for an indefinite period of time in order to manufacture their novel therapeutics. The Partner will also gain early access to Horizon’s programme of continuous cell line innovation, enabling them to license, via the subscription, any follow-on cell lines developed as part of the program at a 50% discount within a 5-year period from signature. The minimum fee will be paid up front, with a significant amount to be recognised in FY2016.

The license deal follows an evaluation period initiated in Q4 2015 and reflects the confidence of the Partner that Horizon will provide a number of additional cell lines over the next five years, leading to significant efficiency improvements in their biomanufacturing capability.

Dr. Darrin Disley, chief executive officer, Horizon Discovery Group, commented, “Horizon continues to be a disruptive influence in the bioproduction arena, using technical and commercial innovation to accelerate advancements in drug manufacturing. This new announcement further validates our approach, with our Partner demonstrating their confidence by making a five year commitment via subscription model to the program. We look forward to making further announcements in this area as Horizon continues its momentum as a key player in the bioproduction space.”