Biogen’s $50 Million Immunology Power Move: Are Oral Peptides The Future?

Biogen Inc. has made headlines with its latest strategic maneuver: a $50 million research partnership with Dayra Therapeutics, a biotech innovator specializing in macrocyclic peptides. This move signals Biogen’s intensified push into the immunology space, a significant pivot from its traditional focus on neuroscience. The deal gives Biogen early access to a platform designed to develop oral treatments for autoimmune and inflammatory conditions—categories currently dominated by injectable therapies. The announcement comes amid Biogen’s broader efforts to diversify its portfolio and de-risk from the challenges facing its neuroscience pipeline. Having recently collaborated with Vanqua Bio and acquired Human Immunology Biosciences, Biogen is clearly aiming to build a robust immunology pipeline to complement its existing treatments. While the specific disease targets remain undisclosed, the partnership underscores Biogen’s commitment to rebuilding its growth engine through early-stage innovation and strategic licensing.