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Biogen Idec Exclusively Licenses Isis Antisense Tech for Neurological Diseases

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Isis Pharmaceuticals this week announced that it had formed a strategic alliance with Biogen Idec to develop antisense-based treatments for neurological disorders.

Under the terms of the six-year arrangement, Biogen Idec will have the exclusive rights to use Isis' antisense technology to develop drugs for neurological diseases. Isis will receive $100 million upfront and is eligible to receive milestones, license fees, and royalties on all products developed under the arrangement.

The companies said they will work together to select and validate disease targets and conduct drug-discovery activities. Isis will primarily handle early-stage work, while Biogen Idec will be responsible for later-stage development and commercialization.

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