4D Molecular Therapeutics Secures $85 Million Upfront in Strategic AAV Partnership with Otsuka for Retinal Diseases

EMERYVILLE, Calif. — 4D Molecular Therapeutics (4DMT), a late-stage biotechnology company specializing in AAV genetic medicine, today announced a strategic partnership with Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. to develop and commercialize 4D-150 for the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration (wet AMD) and diabetic macular edema (DME) across the greater Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

The collaboration leverages 4DMT’s expertise in AAV vector design—specifically the R100 vector used in 4D-150—and combines it with Otsuka’s robust development, regulatory, and commercial infrastructure in APAC markets. 4D-150 is designed as a potentially transformative backbone therapy aimed at providing durable, multi-year anti-VEGF delivery from the retina via a single, safe, intravitreal injection, potentially freeing patients from burdensome, frequent injections.

Financial and Clinical Details:

• 4DMT will receive an $85 million upfront cash payment.
• The partnership includes expected cost sharing of at least $50 million from Otsuka over the next three years for global development activities, supporting the global Phase 3 clinical trial in DME and pre-commercial activities.
• 4DMT is eligible for up to $336 million in potential regulatory and commercial milestone payments, plus tiered double-digit royalties on net sales in Otsuka’s territories.
• 4DMT retains full development and commercialization rights outside of APAC, including the U.S. and Europe, and will continue to lead all Phase 3 clinical activities globally.

The companies aim to accelerate the global registration of 4D-150 to address wet AMD and DME, which are leading causes of blindness worldwide.