Biogen Idec

Biogen Idec was a biotechnology company specializing in the discovery, development, and delivery of therapies for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, hemophilia, and autoimmune disorders. Founded in 1978 as Biogen, it merged with Idec Pharmaceuticals in 2003 to become Biogen Idec. In 2015, the company changed its name back to Biogen. Throughout its history, Biogen Idec was at the forefront of medical research and innovation, particularly in the field of multiple sclerosis (MS) treatments.

History

Biogen, one of the world's oldest independent biotechnology companies, was founded in 1978 by several biologists and venture capitalists, including Nobel Prize winners Walter Gilbert and Phillip Sharp. The company initially focused on molecular biology and genetic engineering, and it was instrumental in producing one of the first significant biotech drugs, alpha interferon.

Idec Pharmaceuticals, established in 1985, was known for its development of antibody-based products to treat cancer. Its most notable product was Rituxan, used for treating non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

The merger of Biogen and Idec Pharmaceuticals in 2003 created Biogen Idec, combining Biogen's expertise in autoimmune diseases with Idec's strengths in cancer therapy. This merger aimed to enhance the company's capabilities in drug discovery and development.

Key Products

Biogen Idec developed several important drugs during its operation. Notable among these were:

• Natalizumab (Tysabri): A monoclonal antibody for the treatment of multiple sclerosis and Crohn's disease. It was one of the first drugs to show significant efficacy in reducing the frequency of relapses in MS patients.
• Interferon beta-1a (Avonex): A form of interferon used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Avonex was one of the leading treatments for MS, known for its ability to slow the progression of physical disability.
• Adalimumab (Humira): Although primarily developed by Abbott Laboratories, Biogen Idec was involved in its early development. Humira is used to treat various autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.

Research and Development

Biogen Idec was committed to advancing the science of neurology and immunology, with a significant portion of its research focused on therapies for multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases. The company invested heavily in research and development (R&D), exploring novel treatments that could offer new hope to patients with few therapeutic options.

Merger and Name Change

In 2015, Biogen Idec announced it would drop "Idec" from its name and rebrand itself as Biogen. This change was part of a broader strategy to streamline its operations and focus more closely on its core capabilities in neurology.

Legacy

Biogen Idec's legacy is marked by its commitment to innovation and its significant contributions to the field of biotechnology. The company's research and products have had a profound impact on the lives of patients around the world, particularly those suffering from multiple sclerosis and other severe chronic conditions.