What were the pros and cons of Sangamo pursuing its gene editing programs alone

Question

What were the pros and cons of Sangamo pursuing its gene editing programs alone versus working with a partner? Does the HIV program offer any special opportunities or challenges? What do you think Sangamo should do regarding the HIV program? Should it license the technology to a larger pharmaceutical? Should it form a joint venture with another biotech or pharma company? If so, who? Importantly, apply as many of the COs (Course Objectives) as you can to the case. These are given for reference below. Your Case should be at least 3 pages (at least 800 words), double spaced, have at least four (4) references using APA format (you may use one or two references cited from the case but you should have at least two additional unique reference from your own research) , and typed in an easy-to-read font (Times New Roman 12 font recommended) in MS Word (no pdfs or rtfs or non standard formats). Please include a cover sheet with your full name, the case name, our course number (NETW583), and the date you submit.

Explanation / Answer

Q: What were the pros and cons of Sangamo pursuing its gene editing programs alone versus working with a partner?
A: The pros were: Sangamo retained control of the ZFN technology and its development.
The cons were: Their progress to achieving their vision of HIV gene therapy is delayed and that they do not have the capabilities to complete drug development and commercialization.

There were also pros of Sangamo working with a partner. For example, Sangamo and their potential partner will share the costs. This can help both companies reduce the amount of money that must be invested throughout the many phases a new drug goes through before making it to the market. Another pros to both companies is that they will have access to one another’s resources. This will aid in getting the new drug to patients in less time than usual. One of the cons for Sangamo partnering with another company is that there may be restrictions that come around because they have to listen to input from their partner. When in a partnership, depending on the stakes or ownership agreements, there is usually some back and forth during the decision-making process. For example, the decision-making process could cause problems for Sangamo if the partners disagree with market strategy or partner views clash with their business ethics. Also, a cons to partnering with another company would be sharing profits with their partner. As mentioned in the case Biogen Idec and Shire AG would give an upfront payment to Sangamo but after the product is presented to the market Sangamo would receive lump sum payments and royalty payments.

Q: Does the HIV program offer any special opportunities or challenges?
A: The opportunity is to cure HIV.
The challenges include clinical trials, commercialization, and affordable delivery to over 30 million people in the first phase.

Q: What do you think Sangamo should do regarding the HIV program? Should it license the technology to a larger pharmaceutical? Should it form a joint venture with another biotech or pharma company? If so, who?  
A: Sangamo is in extremis financially. Rather than trying to commercialize ZFNs for HIV therapy, they should grant amfAR and WHO world-wide royalty-free licenses on ZFN technology relevant to HIV treatment in exchange for funding to continue ZFN development for this task.

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