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Novartis has announced that it has ‘entered’ an agreement to acquire Anthos Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, in a deal that could reach upwards of USD 2 billion.

The acquisition includes Anthos’ new late-stage therapy, abelacimab, which is in development for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation, potentially bolstering the Swiss company’s cardiovascular portfolio.

"Welcoming Anthos Therapeutics strengthens our focus in the cardiovascular space and complements our portfolio of life-changing treatments, comprehensive clinical programs, and strategic collaborations that help thousands of patients with heart disease around the world," said Shreeram Aradhye, Chief Medical Officer, Novartis.

Abelacimab is a 100% human monoclonal antibody that is highly selective and binds to Factor XI, blocking its activation and inhibiting the production of Factor XIa (the activated form).

This action is similar to that of natural Factor XI deficiency, which is linked to protection against thromboembolic illness.

"We are excited to join forces to advance the development of abelacimab, a potential first-in-class treatment and safer approach for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation as well as cancer-associated thrombosis," added Shreeram.

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The FDA granted abelacimab a Fast-Track Designation in July 2022 for the treatment of cancer-related thrombosis and thereafter receiving a similar Designation in September 2022 for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in atrial fibrillation patients.

"We are proud that this medicine originated at Novartis and have been impressed with the Anthos Therapeutics team's expertise and dedication and with the great progress they have made on the program. Now is the right time to bring abelacimab back into the Novartis CRM pipeline," said David Soergel, M.D., Global Head, Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism Development Unit, Novartis

Under the terms of the agreement, Novartis will make an upfront payment of USD 925 million upon closing of the transaction, subject to certain customary adjustments, and potential additional payments of up to USD 2.15 billion upon achievement of specified regulatory and sales milestones.

The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2025, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

According to the agreement, Novartis will pay USD 925 million up front when the deal closes, subject to certain customary adjustments. 

The company will thereafter make additional payments of up to USD 2.15 billion after certain sales and regulatory milestones are met.

The deal is anticipated to close in the first half of 2025.

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