ERS Genomics Limited, which was formed to provide broad access to the foundational CRISPR/Cas9 intellectual property co-owned by Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier, and Setsuro Tech, a biotechnology start-up using genome-editing techniques to develop and supply cell and animal models, announced a non-exclusive license agreement granting Setsuro Tech access to ERS Genomics’ CRISPR/Cas9 patent portfolio for Japan.

Setsuro Tech has developed a high-throughput genome editing method for mammalian embryos, termed genome editing by electroporation of Cas9 protein (GEEP). Using this method, the company is able to generate genetically engineered mice at a low cost and in a short timeframe. Setsuro Tech is applying CRISPR/Cas9 technology to create genome-edited cell and animal models, based on end-user requirements.

ERS Genomics holds an exclusive worldwide license from co-founder and recent Nobel prize winner Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier to the foundational intellectual property covering CRISPR/Cas9 for use as a research platform.

“The versatility and programmability of Cas9 has enabled the CRISPR/Cas9 technology to become a revolutionary approach in biological research,” said Eric Rhodes, CEO of ERS Genomics. 

“Our technology enables us to provide researchers with genome-edited models quickly and at relatively low cost,” commented Shinichiro Takezawa, CEO, Setsuro Tech. “The license from ERS expands our portfolio and having access to advanced technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9 will allow us to continue our high-quality offerings that combine CRISPR/Cas9 with our patent-pending technologies.”

Financial details of the agreement are not disclosed.

Summit Pharmaceuticals International Corporation, a subsidiary of Sumitomo Corporation, is the exclusive agent for ERS Genomics in Japan.