TLDR
- 4DMT secures $85M from Otsuka to drive APAC gene therapy expansion.
- Otsuka gains 4D-150 rights across Japan, China, and wider APAC markets.
- 4D-150 aims to revolutionize retinal care with one-time gene therapy.
- Partnership strengthens 4DMT’s leadership in global retinal therapeutics.
- APAC rollout of 4D-150 targets millions with wet AMD and diabetic eye disease.
4D Molecular Therapeutics (FDMT) stock closed at $11.32 on October 30, down 0.79%Â after announcing a significant partnership with Otsuka Pharmaceutical.
4D Molecular Therapeutics, Inc., FDMT
The $85 million upfront deal aims to develop and commercialize 4D-150 in the Asia-Pacific region. The agreement strategically positions 4DMT to accelerate global expansion and unlock long-term revenue in key international markets.
APAC Expansion Deal Boosts 4DMT’s Strategic Reach
4D Molecular Therapeutics granted Otsuka exclusive rights to develop and commercialize 4D-150 in Japan, China, Australia, and other APAC regions. Otsuka will manage regulatory filings and commercialization, while 4DMT retains responsibility for all Phase 3 clinical trials. This includes clinical operations across APAC markets, where trial sites are expected to open by late 2025.
The company will receive $85 million in cash upfront and expects Otsuka to contribute at least $50 million in development cost-sharing. The deal includes up to $336 million in potential milestone payments and tiered double-digit royalties. 4DMT maintains full rights for the U.S., Europe, and Latin America, ensuring global control outside of APAC.
The collaboration aligns both companies’ strengths—4DMT’s gene therapy and retina expertise with Otsuka’s APAC market access and regulatory capabilities. This synergy strengthens the global strategy for 4D-150 while reducing financial risk. Moreover, the agreement enhances 4DMT’s position as a leader in retinal therapeutics.
4D-150 Positioned as Breakthrough Retinal Therapy
4D-150 is a gene therapy designed to deliver long-term treatment for retinal vascular diseases like wet AMD and diabetic macular edema. The product uses a single intravitreal injection to release anti-VEGF agents directly into the retina. This approach eliminates the need for frequent injections, which remains a burden under current treatment options.
The candidate is built on 4DMT’s proprietary AAV vector platform, developed to target eye tissue efficiently and safely. With a focus on durability, 4D-150 aims to improve adherence while reducing vision loss risk. The platform continues to drive the company’s innovation pipeline and competitive edge.
Phase 3 trials are already underway for wet AMD, while DME trials are expected to follow. APAC sites will support global data collection, expanding clinical reach. If successful, 4D-150 could reshape the treatment landscape for millions suffering from retinal diseases.
Retinal Disease Market Shows Unmet Global Demand
Wet AMD and DME affect millions globally, with growing prevalence in aging and diabetic populations. Wet AMD alone is expected to impact over 4 million people across key markets within five years. The disease causes abnormal blood vessel growth in the macula, leading to swelling, bleeding, and vision loss.
DME arises from diabetic retinopathy and is characterized by fluid accumulation in the retina, often necessitating frequent anti-VEGF treatments. Adherence is low, creating significant unmet need for long-term solutions like 4D-150. These conditions together form a major therapeutic area with limited durable treatment options.
With this partnership, 4DMT aims to broaden access to underserved patients in APAC and reduce long-term vision loss. Otsuka’s presence in Japan and Asia gives the therapy a strong commercialization pathway. This agreement significantly advances 4DMT’s global footprint while addressing a pressing global health challenge.
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