Biogen and Xbrane Ink Agreement for Proposed Biosimilar

Biogen, a biotechnology company, and Xbrane Biopharma AB, a biotechnology research and development company, announced on Feb. 7, 2022, that they had entered into an agreement to develop, manufacture, and commercialize Xcimzane.

Xcimzane is a preclinical monoclonal antibody that is a proposed biosimilar referencing CIMZIA (certolizumab pegol). Certolizumab pegol is typically used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, although it has also seen use in axial spondyloarthritis, psoriasis, and Crohn’s disease.

“We aim to bring more biosimilars products to more patients and more geographies and we are excited to bring this additional asset to our Biosimilars pipeline,” said Ian Henshaw, Head of Global Biosimilars at Biogen. “This preclinical biosimilar candidate has the potential to add another option for patients living with rheumatoid arthritis and other indications.”

“Given their vast development and commercialization experience, we are convinced that Biogen is the best possible partner we could have for Xcimzane,” said Martin Åmark, CEO of Xbrane Biopharma AB. “Today’s announcement confirms Xbrane’s ambition to become a global biosimilar developer.”

Per the terms of the agreement, Xbrane will be responsible for the completion of preclinical development of Xcimzane. Biogen will make an upfront payment of $8 million to Xbrane. Xbrane will also be eligible to receive up to $80 million in potential milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties. Biogen will gain exclusive global regulatory, manufacturing, and commercial rights to the drug.

Source: Biogen