Biogen Completes Acquisition Of Alcyone Therapeutics, Bringing ThecaFlex DRx™ CNS Drug-Delivery Technology Into Its Neurology Portfolio

Biogen Inc. has completed its acquisition of Alcyone Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing advanced delivery systems for central nervous system (CNS) therapies. This acquisition brings Alcyone’s ThecaFlex DRx™ technology into Biogen’s portfolio, strengthening the company’s position in innovative drug delivery solutions for neurological disorders.

The ThecaFlex DRx™ system is an investigational implantable device created to offer an alternative to repeated lumbar punctures, which are often required for long-term intrathecal administration of certain medicines. Lumbar punctures can be uncomfortable, time-consuming, and challenging for many patients. By providing a more convenient and potentially less invasive method, the ThecaFlex DRx™ aims to improve the overall treatment experience and make therapy more accessible for individuals living with chronic neurological conditions.

Development of ThecaFlex DRx™ began in 2019, and the device is currently being studied in two ongoing clinical trials, known as PIERRE and PIERRE-PK. These studies focus on delivering nusinersen, the active ingredient in Biogen’s approved therapy SPINRAZA®. SPINRAZA is widely used to treat spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in both pediatric and adult patients. Biogen plans to introduce the new ThecaFlex DRx™ delivery system for SPINRAZA in early 2028, provided the clinical studies are successful and regulatory agencies grant approval.

According to Lisa Shafer, Head of CMC Development and Product Delivery Solutions at Biogen, the acquisition combines Biogen’s biopharmaceutical strengths with advanced medical device technology. She explained that integrating ThecaFlex DRx™ supports Biogen’s efforts to enhance patient experience, expand treatment accessibility, and continue developing pioneering solutions that address unmet needs in neurological care.