Biogen, Xbrane Develop Preclinical Monoclonal Antibody, Biosimilar

Biogen and Xbrane Biopharma recently agreed to develop, manufacture, and commercialize a preclinical monoclonal antibody and proposed biosimilar, Xcimzane, referencing Cimzia. 

Cimzia is a drug that reduces the signs and symptoms of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), ankylosing spondylitis, and Crohn’s disease. The drug was initially FDA-approved in 2008. In 2020, global sales of Cimzia were EU $1.8 billion.

“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,” Ian Henshaw, head of global biosimilars at Biogen, said in the announcement.

“This preclinical biosimilar candidate has the potential to add another option for patients living with rheumatoid arthritis and other indications,” Henshaw continued.

Under the terms of the agreement, Biogen will make an upfront payment of $8 million to Xbrane and will gain exclusive global regulatory, manufacturing, and commercial rights to the drug. 

On the other hand, Xbrane will be eligible to receive tiered royalties and be responsible for the preclinical development of Xcimzane. Martin Amark, CEO of Xbrane Biopharma, stated that the announcement confirms the company’s ambition to become a global biosimilar developer.

Biosimilar adoption creates an opening for manufacturers and increases choices for payers, physicians, and patients by offering a cheaper version of biologics, proven to be effective treatment options for patients with chronic conditions. 

A November 2021 study found that generics and biosimilars saved the US healthcare system nearly $340 billion in spending in 2020. Specifically, biosimilar drugs saved $7.9 billion, more than tripling the $2.5 billion saved in 2019.

In January 2022, Samsung Biologics announced that it will acquire Biogen’s stake in Samsung Bioepis for $2.3 billion to accelerate growth in biosimilars and novel therapeutic research and development.

Under the terms of the agreement, Samsun Bioepis’’ will further its sales growth and streamline operational efficiencies. So far, the company has successfully launched five biosimilars globally, three in autoimmune and two in oncology.