OXB Lentiviral Vectors Used in Gene Therapy Trial

OXB's lentiviral vector manufacturing technology to support Boehringer Ingelheim's newly initiated Phase I/II trial of first-in-class gene therapy for cystic fibrosis

Commencement of LENTICLAIR™ 1 trial, utilising OXB lentiviral vectors; builds on long term collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim

Oxford, UK - 20 February 2025: OXB (LSE: OXB), a global quality and innovation-led cell and gene therapy CDMO, today announces that its proprietary lentiviral vector manufacturing technology will be used in Boehringer Ingelheim's newly initiated LENTICLAIR™ 1 trial. The Phase I/II study is evaluating BI 3720931, a novel, first-in-class, inhaled gene therapy for the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF).

With three decades of expertise in viral vector development and manufacturing, OXB will support the development of this potential treatment for CF, a genetic condition caused by mutations in the CFTR gene that affects more than 100,000 people worldwide. While CFTR modulators have provided treatment options for some patients, there remains a significant unmet need for 10-15% of people with CF due to mutation type or modulator intolerance.

BI 3720931 is a first-in-class, inhaled lentiviral vector-based gene therapy designed to address this need through a novel approach of inserting a functional copy of the CFTR gene in the DNA of airway epithelial cells.

This trial builds on the successful collaboration initiated in August 2018 with Boehringer Ingelheim. OXB's ongoing role in this programme highlights its reputation as a trusted CDMO and its commitment to advancing pioneering gene therapies that address significant unmet needs.

Frank Mathias, Chief Executive Officer of OXB, said: "We are delighted that Boehringer Ingelheim is using OXB's proprietary lentiviral vector manufacturing technology for the clinical development of their CF gene therapy. This programme has the potential to transform the lives of patients living with CF and exemplifies OXB's commitment to supporting cutting-edge cell and gene therapies. We look forward to playing a key role in its progression."

About Boehringer Ingelheim

Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company active in both human and animal health. As one of the industry's top investors in Research and Development, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies in areas of high unmet medical need. Independent since its foundation in 1885, Boehringer takes a long-term perspective, embedding sustainability along the entire value chain. More than 53,500 employees serve over 130 markets to build a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable tomorrow. Learn more at https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com.