Stephen Barker's questions to Takeda Pharmaceutical Co Ltd (TAK) leadership • Q1 2025
Question
Stephen Barker of Jefferies asked for the rationale behind ending the partnership with JCR for the Hunter syndrome candidate JR-141. He also questioned the decision to pursue an Alzheimer's vaccine with AC Immune, given the regulatory challenges and general questions surrounding the amyloid thesis.
Answer
Andrew Plump, President of R&D, stated that the JCR partnership termination was part of a broader pipeline prioritization to support emerging late-stage assets. Regarding the AC Immune deal, he expressed confidence in the amyloid beta clearing approach, suggesting a vaccine could offer a safer profile and allow for earlier intervention, potentially increasing efficacy. Julie Kim, President, U.S. Business Unit, added that Takeda's existing Hunter syndrome treatment, ELAPRASE, continues to serve patient needs well.