Biogen Inc. and MedRhythms have entered into a license agreement to develop and commercialize MR-004, an investigational prescription digital therapeutic for the potential treatment of gait deficits in multiple sclerosis (MS).
The collaboration combines MedRhythms’ digital expertise with Biogen’s leadership and global footprint in MS in order to address significant unmet patient needs.
MedRhythms is developing next-generation prescription digital therapeutics across a broad range of indications in neurology via a technology platform that leverages advancements in neuroscience and music to target improved walking and mobility. MR-004 is MedRhythms’ pipeline candidate in MS, which aims to improve gait and gait-related aspects of movement, potentially providing MS patients with improved independence related to mobility. If approved, MR-004 has the potential to become the first prescription digital therapeutic for gait deficit in MS. MedRhythms is currently conducting two ongoing feasibility studies for MR-004, and, based on the readout of the first study, plans to initiate a registrational trial in the near future.
Martin Dubuc, Head of Biogen Digital Health, said:
As part of our aspiration in digital health, together with MedRhythms we aim to advance a new, innovative treatment option for people living with MS that may help address walking impairment, a common issue that impacts their overall quality of life. Pioneering in digital therapeutics exemplifies Biogen’s commitment to advance novel therapies that we hope will improve outcomes for people living with MS.
Brian Harris, Chief Executive Officer of MedRhythms, said:
At MedRhythms, we are committed to redefining what is possible for people living with neurologic diseases by building evidence-based products that meaningfully impact symptoms that have been underserved by traditional treatment modalities. We look forward to what our collaboration with Biogen, a global leader in MS, could mean for the patients we serve around the world.
Under the terms of the agreement, Biogen will make an upfront payment of $3 million to MedRhythms. Should certain development and commercial milestones be achieved, MedRhythms will be eligible to receive up to $117.5 million in potential milestone payments. MedRhythms is also eligible to receive tiered royalties in the high-single digits to low-teens on potential global sales.
