Biogen is set to acquire US-based Alcyone Therapeutics. Biogen has an existing partnership with Alcyone, and both companies are developing a device that has the potential to improve how medications are given to patients with neurological disorders.
The device, ThecaFlex DRx, is an implantable subcutaneous port and catheter device and it is being investigated for the intrathecal delivery of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs).
The device is designed to provide an alternative to repeat lumbar punctures in chronic intrathecal administration of medicines, which could improve patient experience and accessibility for people with neurologic disorders.
The ThecaFlex DRx System is initially being evaluated for use with SPINRAZA (nusinersen) and Biogen will drive end-to-end development, manufacturing and commercialisation of the device.
SPINRAZA is use to treat paediatric and adult patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Biogen plans to introduce the new drug delivery system for SPINRAZA in early 2028, contingent upon the successful completion of clinical trials and regulatory approval.
Nicole Murphy, Head of Pharmaceutical Operations and Technology at Biogen said: “We believe the acquisition of Alcyone Therapeutics offers a strategic opportunity to both expand the company’s capabilities and enhance the value proposition of our medicines by offering a meaningful, patient-centred solution.”
PJ Anand, Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Alcyone Therapeutics commented: “With ThecaFlex DRx, following our productive partnership with Biogen, we now have the opportunity to further deliver what could be the first truly patient-centred, chronic intrathecal delivery option for these important therapies.”
Biogen will pay US-based Alcyone Therapeutics an upfront cash payment of $85M plus certain milestones payable related to the development and regulatory approval of ThecaFlex DRx with nusinersen and additional pipeline products, securing all rights to ThecaFlex Drx. Once the deal is concluded, Alcyone employees will become part of Biogen’s product delivery solutions team.