Avigen Therapeutics

Avigen was a U.S. biopharmaceutical company focused on neurological disorders and, historically, adeno-associated virus gene therapy. In its later years, the company concentrated on AV-411 (ibudilast), an oral small-molecule candidate for neuropathic pain and opioid withdrawal, and it had previously advanced programs in neuromuscular and CNS indications. Avigen also built an earlier gene therapy franchise and associated intellectual property around AAV vectors, some of which were partnered or assigned to third parties. The company was publicly traded on Nasdaq under the symbol AVGN before being acquired by MediciNova in December 2009. Following the acquisition, Avigen ceased operating as an independent active company.