Biohaven’s latest failure is far from systemic

Biohaven investors yesterday shrugged off the failure of verdiperstat in multiple system atrophy. But a look at the pipeline shows that there are not many other projects in development for the disease, which shares some similarities with Parkinson’s. Indeed, it is notable that several efforts are being spearheaded by academic centres, some involving drugs approved for other uses. Earlier-stage projects from the likes of Biogen/Ionis and Bayer look more interesting, as do assets from Modag and Alterity targeting alpha-synuclein; however, questions remain about this target after recent setbacks with similarly acting agents in Parkinson’s. For now, Modag's Anle138b is only in the clinic for Parkinson’s, although the private group also has plans in MSA. As for verdiperstat, that project will have another chance soon, with the academic Healey platform trial in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis set to complete enrolment this year. Leerink analysts believe that verdiperstat, which targets neuroinflammation, might still have legs in ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases, but hopes cannot now be high. Astrazeneca’s decision to offload the asset after disappointing phase 2 data looks wise. Still, Biohaven investors seem more focused on the group’s migraine franchise, which is off to a good launch.