Biogen bets big on immune drug from Vanqua Bio in $1B+ deal

Biogen licensed a preclinical drug from Vanqua Bio that targets C5aR1, a key inflammation-regulating protein, for $70M upfront and up to $990M in milestone payments.

Why it matters: The deal expands Biogen’s immunology pipeline with a promising, early-stage asset and signals a strategic pivot toward more diversified, lower-risk therapeutic areas.

Backstory: Vanqua Bio, backed by OrbiMed and launched in 2021, focuses on precision medicines. Its C5aR1 inhibitor aims to treat inflammatory disorders and is supported by preclinical data. The drug hasn’t yet entered clinical trials.

Big picture: Biogen is shifting beyond high-risk neuroscience bets under CEO Christopher Viehbacher. Its immunology push follows industry trends and rising investor pressure for nearer-term returns.

Zoom in: C5aR1 therapies are also being pursued by InflaRx, with one already approved in Europe. Similar drugs, like Tavneos (acquired by Amgen), validate C5aR1 as a target.

What’s next: Biogen expects to seek FDA trial approval by 2027, while Vanqua will shift focus to nervous system programs while retaining royalties.