Novartis licenses Alteogen drug delivery tech for $3.2bn

Novartis reported positive phase 3 trial results for remibrutinib, showing superiority over teriflunomide in reducing relapse rates and brain lesions in relapsing multiple sclerosis. The drug demonstrated safety and efficacy in key endpoints. Novartis aims to address unmet needs in oral therapies for RMS. (NVS)

Novartis and Alteogen signed an agreement for global rights to develop subcutaneous versions of Novartis products using Alteogen's ALT-B4 enzyme. The deal includes option fees, milestone payments, and royalties, with a potential value of up to $3.22bn. Alteogen's CEO highlighted Novartis' evaluation of ALT-B4 across multiple modalities. This is Alteogen's fourth such agreement in 2024.

Novartis halted eight trials of rapcabtagene autoleucel in autoimmune diseases after three patient deaths. The pause, effective Aug. 24, affects trials for lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other conditions. Bristol Myers Squibb also paused its zolacabtagene autoleucel trials as a precaution. Both companies are reviewing the incidents. Two lymphoma and leukemia trials of rapcabtagene autoleucel were not impacted.

Alteogen, a South Korea-based biotech company, has signed a $3.223 billion deal with Novartis for the development and commercialization of subcutaneous products using its Hybrozyme™ technology. The agreement involves multiple options for Novartis to obtain exclusive rights to develop and commercialize subcutaneous formulations for its products using Alteogen's ALT-B4. Alteogen could receive up to $3.223 million in milestone payments and royalties if all options are exercised and milestones are a

Novartis (NYSE: NVS) paused eight clinical trials of its experimental CAR-T therapy rap-cel after three patient deaths due to severe immune reactions. The trials involve autoimmune and neurological diseases, while cancer studies remain unaffected. Analysts expect limited financial impact, with estimated peak sales of $440 million. The company is reviewing the cases with regulators and independent safety boards.

Novartis and Bristol Myers Squibb paused autoimmune CAR-T trials due to safety concerns. Novartis halted eight studies of Rap-cel after three fatal cases, while BMS paused Zola-cel trials due to reversible inflammatory events. Novartis also entered a $3.223B deal with Alteogen for subcutaneous biologics. RedHill acquired Rebyota and Clenpiq from Ferring for $12M upfront. Experts argue for real-world insights in obesity care strategy.