Biopharm, Merck Serono Enter Co-Research Pact

Biopharm GmbH has signed an agreement with Merck Serono to research the molecular engineering of a biologic compound for the treatment of osteoarthritis. The two companies will enter a joint discovery project focusing on a potential pro-anabolic osteoarthritis modifying drug based on a growth factor derived from the Biopharm platform technology. Payment fees include an upfront payment, service fees, potential milestone, and royalty payments. Further financial details were not disclosed.
 
The research program will run for two years and aims to strengthen the potential beneficial effects of an existing wildtype protein, which is thought to drive hyaline joint cartilage formation during embryogenic development, which is potentially associated with osteoarthritis. Biopharm will provide variants of the wildtype protein and early preclinical research services. If any osteoarthritis development candidates are identified, Merck Serono will own exclusive development and commercialization rights.
 
“We have insight that the maternal protein shows an important role in joint cartilage formation. These findings raise hope that a modified wildtype protein may induce cartilage regeneration in the osteoarthritic joint,” said Dr. Frank Plöger, chief scientific officer of Biopharm. “The alliance will draw on the combined expertise and resources of Merck Serono and Biopharm with the ultimate goal to develop a disease modifying osteoarthritis drug. Although we have knowledge about the molecule, we need a partner like Merck Serono, who does not only provide the necessary resources, but also know how best to set up of our research program to ensure a successful hand over to clinical experts.”