1. Increasing numbers of patients around the world are gaining access to lecanemab
After approval of lecanemab in the US in 2023, the drug has also been approved in Japan and China. Additional applications are ongoing in several markets and regions. BioArctic’s royalty revenue is increasing in pace with more patients having access to the treatment. At the same time, the company is preparing a launch in the Nordic region in partnership with Eisai.
2. The potential for treatment in earlier stages of the disease and new drug formulation
An ongoing Phase 3 study is evaluating the possibilities of using lecanemab to prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease among people who have not yet manifested any clinical symptoms but have elevated levels of amyloid beta in the brain. This would mean reaching out to a new, larger patient population. In addition, a subcutaneous formulation is being developed that has the potential to simplify treatment for both patients and care providers.
3. Exidavnemab against Parkinson’s disease on the way to clinical Phase 2
The inauguration of a clinical Phase 2a study of exidavnemab, BioArctic’s most advanced antibody for treatment of Parkinson’s disease, is expected in 2024. The antibody, which targets misfolded alpha-synuclein, demonstrated good properties in a Phase 1 study and is intended to slow the progress of the disease. There is currently no disease-modifying drug on the market.
4. World-class innovative research with focus on diseases with significant medical need
The successes with lecanemab are just the first step in BioArctic’s ambition to improve the lives of patients with neurodegenerative diseases. The research portfolio includes additional drug projects for Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, as well as projects that target ALS and Gaucher disease. The company also has a proprietary technology platform, BrainTransporter, which helps improve the transport of antibodies into the brain.
5. Strong financial position and long-term revenue generation
BioArctic’s successes in its partnerships with global pharma companies and the launch of lecanemab have enabled a very strong financial position. Royalty income from Eisai’s global sales of lecanemab will contribute to long-term revenue generation. At the end of 2023, the company had M 1,112 SEK in cash on hand and current investments, which creates a great degree of flexibility and facilitates robust and innovative investments in both new and existing drug projects.
6. Stable values, leadership model and sustainability initiatives
Employee competence, commitment, and capacity to cooperate with both colleagues and outside partners are BioArctic’s foremost assets. The company’s clear values, leadership model and sustainability initiatives enable new scientific breakthroughs and successes in the development of new treatments that can improve the lives of patients with neurodegenerative diseases. BioArctic’s success with lecanemab has increased the company’s attractiveness as an employer