Biogen and Stoke Therapeutics Partner on Promising Dravet Syndrome Treatment

Biogen has entered into a collaboration with Stoke Therapeutics to develop and commercialize zorevunersen, a potential treatment for Dravet syndrome13.

The deal includes a $165 million upfront payment from Biogen to Stoke Therapeutics13.

Stoke Therapeutics is eligible for up to $385 million in additional development and commercial milestone payments, plus tiered royalties on potential net sales in Biogen's territories13.

Stoke will retain global development rights and commercialization rights in North America (US, Canada, and Mexico), while Biogen will have commercialization rights in the rest of the world13.

Zorevunersen is an investigational antisense oligonucleotide targeting the SCN1A gene, which is the primary cause of most Dravet syndrome cases3.

The Phase III EMPEROR trial for zorevunersen is set to begin in mid-2025, with pivotal data expected in the second half of 202713.

The partnership includes a cost-sharing arrangement, with Biogen covering 30% and Stoke 70% of external clinical development costs for the therapy3.

This collaboration extends Stoke Therapeutics' financial runway through to mid-20281.

Dravet syndrome is a severe, genetic form of epilepsy that can cause prolonged seizures and cognitive dysfunction1.

The deal aligns with Biogen's focus on neurology and rare genetic diseases, complementing their existing portfolio which includes drugs like Spinraza and Skyclarys1.

Sources:

1. https://www.biospace.com/business/biogen-and-stoke-strike-dravet-syndrome-co-development-deal

3. https://www.pharmaceutical-technology.com/news/biogen-stoke-therapeutics-dravet-syndrome/