Biogen inks deal with Rodin, including buy option

US biotech major Biogen (Nasdaq: BIIB) has entered into a multi-year research collaboration around neuronal epigenetics with privately-held Rodin Therapeutics.

As part of the research collaboration between the two companies, Biogen will have the option to acquire Rodin at certain pre-defined milestones at pre-negotiated terms, including total upfront and milestone payments of up to $485 million.

“Central nervous system diseases - in particular, neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease - represent some of the most challenging areas of drug discovery and development. There remains a compelling need for innovative therapeutic approaches. I believe strongly that early collaboration with a strong pharmaceutical company to progress treatment towards and through clinical trials results in a higher probability of success, especially in neuroscience. We are thrilled to be working with a leading company such as Biogen, that has so clearly focused its research and development efforts on neurology,” said Adam Rosenberg, Rodin president and chief executive.