In a significant shift in the gene therapy landscape, Pfizer has announced its decision to cease development of giroctocogene fitelparvovec, a promising gene therapy for hemophilia A, returning all rights to its development partner Sangamo Therapeutics. The announcement came on December 30, marking a surprising turn of events following positive Phase 3 trial results just five months prior.
Clinical Development Status and Recent Results
The gene therapy demonstrated successful outcomes in its Phase 3 AFFINE study, meeting primary endpoints in treating patients with hemophilia A, a serious inherited bleeding disorder. Despite these encouraging results, Pfizer opted to discontinue the program, adding to its pattern of strategic withdrawals from gene therapy initiatives.
Industry Impact and Company Responses
Sangamo Therapeutics CEO Sandy Macrae expressed both surprise and profound disappointment regarding Pfizer's decision. "We were surprised and extremely disappointed by this development," Macrae stated, highlighting the unexpected nature of the withdrawal, particularly given the therapy's clinical success.
Strategic Implications
This decision represents another step in Pfizer's systematic retreat from gene therapy programs, though the company continues to market Beqvez, a hemophilia B gene therapy acquired from Spark Therapeutics. For Sangamo, the focus now shifts to finding an "optimal path" forward, which may include seeking new partnership opportunities to advance the program.
Market Context and Future Prospects
The development comes at a critical time in the gene therapy field, particularly for hemophilia treatments. While Pfizer maintains its presence in hemophilia B treatment through Beqvez, the company's withdrawal from this hemophilia A program could create opportunities for other players in the space.
Sangamo's leadership has indicated they will explore various options to continue the program's development, recognizing the potential value of a therapy that has already demonstrated positive Phase 3 results. The company's search for new partners could reshape the competitive landscape in hemophilia A treatment development.
