Biocon Biologics signs licensing deal for two biosimilars with Yoshindo

Biocon Ltd. said that its subsidiary Biocon Biologics has signed an out-licensing agreement with Japanese pharma company Yoshindo Inc. for commercializing a couple of its pipeline biosimilar assets — bDenosumab and bUstekinumab in Japan.

Ustekinumab is a biosimilar of the reference drug Stelara, which is a monoclonal antibody for the treatment of psoriasis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and other autoimmune conditions.

On the other hand, Denosumab is a biosimilar of the reference drug Prolia, which is a monoclonal antibody used for the treatment of osteoporosis.

As per the terms of the deal, Yoshindo gains exclusive commercialization rights in Japan for the two biosimilars developed and manufactured by Biocon Biologics.

Biocon Biologics will be paid an upfront license fee alongside additional payments linked to certain development milestones in the near future.

Biocon did not reveal the financial terms of the out-licensing deal.

Shreehas Tambe — Biocon Deputy CEO said: “We are excited to partner with Yoshindo to commercialize two of our pipeline biosimilar products, bUstekinumab and bDenosumab, in Japan.

“This partnership is testament to Biocon Biologics’ proven capabilities in R&D, global scale manufacturing and quality compliance. Once approved, these products will expand our offering of affordable, high quality biosimilars in the Japanese market and help address unmet patient needs in bone health and immunology therapy areas.”