In a promising development for Alzheimer’s research, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company and AC Immune SA announced a collaboration to develop and commercialize a new treatment approach. The agreement focuses on ACI-24.060, an active immunotherapy candidate designed to target Alzheimer’s disease by inducing the body to fight the toxic forms of amyloid beta (Abeta) plaque buildup in the brain.<\/p>\n
Abeta plaque is a hallmark feature of Alzheimer’s disease, and ACI-24.060 has the potential to slow or delay disease progression by promoting plaque clearance and inhibiting further formation. Currently, the drug is undergoing a Phase 1b\/2 clinical trial (ABATE) to assess safety, tolerability, and its impact on the immune system and brain function in patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s and adults with Down syndrome, a population with a high risk of developing the disease.<\/p>\n
“This partnership represents a significant step forward in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease,” said Dr. Andrea Pfeifer,CEO of AC Immune. “By combining AC Immune’s expertise in immunotherapy with Takeda’s extensive experience in developing and commercializing neurological drugs, we are well-positioned to bring ACI-24.060 to patients worldwide.”<\/p>\n
Under the agreement, AC Immune will complete the ABATE trial. Following a potential option exercise, Takeda will take the lead on further clinical development, regulatory processes, and global commercialization of the treatment.<\/p>\n
“Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating illness, and we are committed to finding new treatment options,” said Sarah Sheikh,Head of Neuroscience Therapeutic Area Unit and Head of Global Development at Takeda. “We believe ACI-24.060 has the potential to be a groundbreaking therapy with a unique mechanism of action and a more convenient administration route for patients.”<\/p>\n
The agreement includes a $100 million upfront payment to AC Immune, with the potential for additional payments upon achieving development, regulatory, and sales milestones, totaling up to $2.1 billion. AC Immune will also receive tiered royalties on future sales of the drug if it reaches the market.<\/p>\n
This collaboration between Takeda and AC Immune holds significant promise for the development of a new and effective treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. With combined expertise and resources, both companies aim to deliver a much-needed therapy to patients suffering from this debilitating condition.<\/p>\n