Biogen and Ionis Discontinue ALS Drug Development Following Unsuccessful Early Trials

1. Biogen and Ionis have decided to halt the development of their jointly developed drug for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) after disappointing results in early-stage trials.
2. The drug, BIIB078 (also known as IONIS-SOD1Rx), was designed to target a specific genetic mutation associated with some cases of ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
3. The decision to discontinue the drug's development was based on the results of a Phase 1/2 clinical trial, which failed to demonstrate a significant improvement in patients' symptoms or disease progression.
4. Biogen and Ionis will now focus their efforts on other research and development projects, including other potential treatments for ALS and other neurological disorders.
5. Despite this setback, both companies remain committed to advancing the understanding and treatment of ALS, a disease for which there is currently no cure.