Eisai (TYO: 4523), a Japan-headquartered pharmaceutical company, has entered into a significant partnership with Shanghai Pharmaceuticals (SPH; HKG: 2607; SHA: 601607), a leading China-based pharmaceutical distribution giant, to collaborate on the Alzheimer’s disease (AD) drug Leqembi (lecanemab). The deal is potentially valued at RMB 1.5 billion (USD 205 million) and encompasses procurement, marketing, and supply chain innovative services.
Leqembi’s Role in Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment
Lecanemab is a humanized monoclonal antibody designed to selectively bind to and eliminate soluble toxic Aβ aggregates that are implicated in AD pathology, with the goal of slowing the progression of the disease. Clinical trials have demonstrated that Leqembi significantly reduces β amyloid accumulation in a dose-dependent manner compared to placebo. Eisai filed for market approval of lecanemab in China in December 2022, with an expected approval in 2024, following its approval for marketing in the US in January 2023.
Eisai’s Collaboration with CIRC for Alzheimer’s Diagnosis and Treatment
In a separate development, Eisai has entered into a memorandum of understanding with the China Isotope & Radiation Corporation (CIRC) to focus on the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The collaboration aims to leverage the respective strengths of both companies to explore early diagnosis and precision treatment options for AD in China. CIRC possesses a positron imaging agent that is anticipated to be used in conjunction with lecanemab, enhancing the diagnostic capabilities for Alzheimer’s patients.-Fineline Info & Tech
