July 17, 2015
Biogen is one of the world’s leading biotechnology companies, with a focus on developing therapies for neurodegenerative, hematologic and autoimmune disorders. Founded in 1978, Biogen’s work in biologics and small-molecule drug discovery has led to the world’s most extensive portfolio of multiple sclerosis (MS) therapies and innovative new treatments for hemophilia patients.
Biogen seeks to enhance individualized treatment outcomes through emerging technology, clinical innovation, and continuous learning. Biogen’s work aims to capitalize on new and emerging technology to collect and better synthesize information in order to improve knowledge of disease impacts and therapies.
Biogen became interested in Atlas5D’s technology, Echo5D, for high-precision, 24×7 real-world measurement of movement — particularly in how the technology could be applied to MS, an autoimmune condition which can impair walking ability. Atlas5D began working with Biogen and the Massachusetts General Hospital to engage people with MS, who helped to test the technology in their homes.
“The Echo5D solution is the first of its kind in the world to gather accurate real-world data for MS without requiring the patient to do anything: no sensors to wear, nothing to recharge. We are encouraged by the quality and context of the information. It’s like we’ve opened up a world of MS that was previously invisible. Our vision is to provide meaningful data about a patient’s mobility, which — by allowing us to understand MS in a way we couldn’t before — may ultimately lead to better outcomes.”
Glenn Phillips, PhD, Director, Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Biogen