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Biogen
and the Parkinson's Institute and Clinical Center today
announced the formation of a strategic alliance focused on enhancing the
understanding of the underlying biology of Parkinson's disease (PD) and the
creation of novel tools and programs that could accelerate research and the
development of new PD treatments. The agreement will combine the unique
clinical expertise and data of the Institute with Biogen's focus on
neurodegenerative disease and approach to clinical development.
"As we work to tackle some of the most difficult challenges in
neurodegenerative disease, we are committed to working with the world's best
researchers and institutions," said Spyros Artavanis-Tsakonas, Chief
Scientific Officer at Biogen. "The Institute sees almost 2,500 Parkinson's
patients a year, has one of the largest repositories of patient information,
and comprises leading clinicians in the Parkinson's community. Combining
their vast resources in PD and our capabilities in research and clinical
development, we believe we can make important advances in understanding and
ultimately discovering new treatment approaches for this devastating
disease."
The multi-year collaboration includes an array of PD-related activities
designed to drive advances in basic science and treatment including:
-- Discovery of gene targets and modifier genes that might serve as novel
therapeutic targets
-- The creation of well-defined patient-derived induced pluripotent stem
cells (iPSC)
-- A study of gastrointestinal symptoms related to PD
-- A search for quantitative and symptom-based trial endpoints
-- The potential identification of new therapeutic approval pathways
The collaborative effort will be enhanced by rich information from the
Institute's Brain and Tissue Knowledge Bank, which contains patient
biological samples, profiles, family health histories, and clinical
outcomes.
"This is a unique opportunity for a leading biopharmaceutical company and a
world-renowned research and clinical care institute to combine forces to
make a significant impact on PD," said Carrolee Barlow, CEO Parkinson's
Institute and Clinical Center. "Biogen is a leader in innovative drug
discovery and development, and the Institute is a globally recognized leader
in the study and treatment of Parkinson's, from basic science through
clinical care. The Institute was founded on a unique model established over
25 years ago, and our collaboration with Biogen will significantly broaden
and strengthen our efforts. Together, we anticipate that our work together
will lead to innovations that will benefit all individuals living with
Parkinson's."
Parkinson's disease is a progressive movement-related disorder of the
central nervous system. It is estimated that there are approximately one
million Americans living with Parkinson's. Each year, 50,000 new cases are
diagnosed, and this rate is expected to rise with the aging population. A
clear understanding of Parkinson's and its underlying pathophysiology
continues to be elusive as a result of the disease's complexity.
Under the terms of the agreement, Biogen will fund research activities by
the Institute and provide strategic insight into research design, data
analysis, and program support.
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