Biogen to obtain licence for Ionis’ investigational SMA therapy

Biogen has exercised an option to attain an exclusive, global, royalty-bearing licence for developing and marketing Ionis Pharmaceuticals’ investigational antisense oligonucleotide (ASO), BIIB115/ION306.

The preclinical ASO BIIB115 is being developed to treat spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and could potentially address further unmet needs.

It may also have the potential for prolonged dosing intervals.

Under the option exercise, Ionis received an upfront payment of $60m from Biogen in the fourth quarter of last year.

Payments in the future could comprise development post-licensing, regulatory and commercial milestone payments, as well as royalty payments on yearly global net sales.

With the latest development, Biogen will now handle the expenses linked to the development, production and potential marketing of the drug.

Furthermore, the company will progress BIIB115 to trials to analyse its safety, pharmacokinetics, tolerability and efficacy.

The companies presently have an extensive strategic partnership in place to develop new treatments for neurological ailments.

Under the option exercise, Ionis received an upfront payment of $60m from Biogen in the fourth quarter of last year.

Payments in the future could comprise development post-licensing, regulatory and commercial milestone payments, as well as royalty payments on yearly global net sales.

With the latest development, Biogen will now handle the expenses linked to the development, production and potential marketing of the drug.

Furthermore, the company will progress BIIB115 to trials to analyse its safety, pharmacokinetics, tolerability and efficacy.

The companies presently have an extensive strategic partnership in place to develop new treatments for neurological ailments.