Biferonex^® Interferon Beta

Status: Submitted to the EMEA in 2007

The nervous system consists of a complex network of nerve cells that control body functions by transmitting signals to and from the brain. An insulatory layer known as “myelin” surrounds nerve cells and if this myelin sheath becomes damaged, the nervous system function is diminished. In multiple sclerosis, the myelin sheath is destroyed, resulting in impaired nervous system function.

Interferon beta has been extensively studied in multiple sclerosis, exhibiting beneficial effects in both the relapsing-remitting and progressive forms of the disease. Interferon beta inhibits inflammatory activity, reducing nerve cell damage. It is also thought to both prevent T-cells from recognizing myelin as “foreign” and attacking it, and also reduces the effect of other naturally occurring compounds that can enhance the immune response to myelin.

Biopartners' interferon beta product candidate, Biferonex^®, is an innovative pH-neutral formulation of interferon beta, a first-generation biopharmaceutical, for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

Biopartners submitted a market authorization application to the EMEA for Biferonex^® in July 2007. The worldwide market for interferon beta is estimated to be worth 3.5 billion USD in 2007.