BioMarin Initiates Legal Action Against Ascendis Pharma
BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. (NASDAQ: BMRN) has taken significant legal steps recently by filing a lawsuit against Ascendis Pharma A/S for allegedly infringing upon its European patent EP 3 175 863 B1 in the Unified Patent Court (UPC). This legal action centers around long-acting variants of C-Type Natriuretic Peptide (CNP), which are of great importance in the biotechnology industry.
Details of the Legal Action
The lawsuit is deemed critical by BioMarin, as it asserts that Ascendis Pharma's TransCon CNP investigational product violates its patent rights. The UPC is expected to provide a decision in the next 12 to 15 months. This claim follows the confirmation of BioMarin's patent by the European Patent Office's Opposition Division earlier in its timeline.
Overview of the Unified Patent Court
The UPC is a newly established court that began operations in mid-2023. It governs European patents affecting 18 member states that have ratified the Unitary Patents system. These countries include Austria, Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, and several others. The establishment of this court marks a significant shift in how patent disputes can be handled across Europe.
BioMarin’s Stand on Intellectual Property
“Intellectual property is the backbone of innovation in biotechnology, especially when it comes to treating rare genetic disorders,” stated Alexander Hardy, President and CEO of BioMarin. The company remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguard the innovations created by its researchers, emphasizing the extensive efforts that have gone into their products, including VOXZOGO and the long-acting CNP, BMN 333.
About BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc.
Founded in 1997, BioMarin is a global biotechnology company dedicated to turning genetic discoveries into transformative medicines. Based in San Rafael, California, the company boasts a robust pipeline with eight commercial therapies and several advanced clinical and preclinical programs. Their focused approach to drug discovery aims at addressing the needs of patients and families dealing with rare or challenging genetic conditions.
Company Contact Information
For further inquiries, BioMarin has provided the following contact details:
Investors:
Traci McCarty
BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc.
(415) 455-7558
Media:
Andrew Villani
BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc.
(628) 269-7393
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis of BioMarin's legal action against Ascendis Pharma?
BioMarin's legal action is based on allegations of patent infringement regarding long-acting variants of CNP.
How long will the legal proceedings take?
The UPC is expected to deliver a decision within the next 12 to 15 months.
What is the Unified Patent Court?
The UPC is a court that handles patent disputes for European patents across 18 member states that have adopted the Unitary Patents system.
What is BioMarin's focus as a biotechnology company?
BioMarin aims to develop treatments for rare genetic disorders leveraging cutting-edge genetic research.
What products has BioMarin developed?
BioMarin has a pipeline that includes eight commercial therapies, with ongoing research for new treatments targeting difficult-to-treat conditions.
