Biogen Inc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Biogen has formed a collaboration with Envisagenics to utilize their AI-driven RNA splicing platform, SpliceCore®, to enhance research on Central Nervous System (CNS) diseases. This partnership aims to analyze RNA isoforms and their regulation, potentially leading to the identification of new drug targets. Envisagenics' platform offers access to a database of 7 million RNA splicing errors, significantly improving the efficiency of splicing error detection compared to traditional methods. This collaboration aligns with Biogen's goals in CNS drug discovery.

Biogen has exercised its option to acquire TMS-007, an investigational drug for acute ischemic stroke, following promising results from a Phase 2a study. The study reported no incidences of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) and significant improvements in blood vessel reopening and patient recovery. Biogen will pay $18 million upfront, with potential additional payments of up to $335 million based on milestones. This acquisition aims to extend the treatment window for thrombolytic therapy beyond the current limitations, addressing a vital unmet medical need in stroke care.

Biogen (Nasdaq: BIIB) and Capsigen have launched a strategic research collaboration to develop novel adeno-associated virus (AAV) capsids aimed at advancing gene therapies for CNS and neuromuscular disorders. Utilizing Capsigen's TRADE™ platform, the partnership focuses on creating customized capsids for targeted disease profiles. Capsigen will receive a $15 million upfront payment, with potential milestones totaling up to $1.25 billion. This collaboration aims to enhance Biogen's gene therapy pipeline and accelerate the delivery of innovative treatments to patients.

Biogen has received a Complete Response Letter (CRL) from the FDA for its supplemental Biologic License Application for a subcutaneous delivery method of TYSABRI (natalizumab) to treat multiple sclerosis. The FDA's response indicates the filing cannot be approved as it stands. Biogen is reviewing the CRL and will decide on further actions. However, the intravenous administration of TYSABRI remains unaffected and continues to be a viable treatment for relapsing MS. The subcutaneous delivery was approved in March 2021 by the European Commission, and Biogen intends to pursue regulatory filings in other countries.

Biogen (Nasdaq: BIIB) released its 2020 Year in Review, highlighting its commitment to climate, health, and equity. The report reveals 11% reduction in absolute emissions and 10% in water withdrawal compared to 2019. Noteworthy goals include PVC-free packaging by 2025 and enhancing diversity in clinical trials. Additionally, the company has tied part of its employees' compensation to ESG metrics and disclosed pay equity analysis results indicating 99.7% alignment with equal pay principles. Biogen also invested over $90 million to support communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eisai Co., Ltd. and Biogen Inc. announced the publication of a Phase 2b clinical trial for lecanemab (BAN2401), an investigational antibody for Alzheimer's disease, in the journal Alzheimer's Research and Therapy. The study reported a consistent reduction in clinical decline across multiple endpoints, supporting its potential for treating early Alzheimer's. The ongoing Phase 3 Clarity AD trial, which includes 1,795 symptomatic patients, aims to confirm these findings. The trials focus on reducing amyloid beta aggregates, which are believed to contribute to the disease's progression.

Biogen (Nasdaq: BIIB) announced significant data from the SPINRAZA clinical development program at the American Academy of Neurology 2021 Virtual Annual Meeting. The DEVOTE study indicates no new safety concerns when using a higher dose of SPINRAZA (nusinersen). With the ongoing development aimed at optimizing outcomes for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) patients, the study explores a higher dose regimen, which includes two loading doses of 50 mg followed by maintenance doses. Additionally, research on biomarkers and digital tools aims to enhance treatment strategies for SMA.

Biogen announced new findings regarding its multiple sclerosis (MS) therapies, particularly TYSABRI and VUMERITY, at the AAN 2021 Virtual Meeting. TYSABRI showed significant improvements in quality of life metrics compared to Ocrevus, with greater enhancements in areas like social roles and emotional management. Additionally, VUMERITY's gastrointestinal tolerability was validated in real-world settings, with a low discontinuation rate due to side effects. These findings reinforce Biogen's dedication to advancing MS treatment through innovative research and real-world evidence.

Biogen has received approval from China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for TECFIDERA (dimethyl fumarate) to treat relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS). This well-established treatment has been administered to over 500,000 patients worldwide since its 2013 introduction. The approval, which followed a priority review, allows Biogen to expand its presence in China, where only about 10% of those diagnosed with MS receive disease-modifying therapies. Clinical trials show TECFIDERA significantly reduces annual relapse rates by 53% compared to placebo.