Biogen defends tau-targeting drug as phase 2 data pave way for pivotal trial
Biogen defended the phase 2 Celia readout of diranersen, an antisense drug that lowers brain tau and slowed cognitive decline, noting the 60 mg dose gave the strongest clinical signal and fewer post-infusion confusions, justifying a rapid move to a phase 3. While the data did not show a clear dose-dependent response, the results—presented at AAIC in London—are viewed as proof-of-concept for tau targeting and could complement anti-amyloid therapies. Investors reacted with optimism as the stock recovered after an initial slide.
