Novartis and Ionis Pharmaceuticals with its affiliate Akcea Therapeutics have signed an agreement for licensing two novel treatments for reducing cardiovascular risk in patients with high levels of lipoproteins known as Lp(a) and ApoCIII.
The two investigational antisense therapies developed by Ionis-called AKCEA-APO(a)-LRx and AKCEA-APOCIII-LRx-have the potential to lower both lipoproteins up to 90% and significantly reduce cardiovascular risk in high-risk patient populations. In addition Novartis entered into a stock purchase agreement with Ionis.
Vasant Narasimhan, Global Head, Drug Development and Chief Medical Officer, Novartis, said: “Lp(a) and ApoCIII are potent, genetically validated cardiovascular risk reduction targets. The importance of predictive biomarkers in achieving successful cardiovascular outcomes will also be essential in the future payer environment. We look forward to working with Ionis and Akcea to develop both treatments.”
According to the agreement, Novartis will be able to exercise its options to license and commercialize AKCEA-APO(a)-LRx and AKCEA-APOCIII-LRx after reaching certain development milestones and before the kickoff of the beginning Phase 3 studies for each program. Upon in-licensing Novartis will be responsible for worldwide development and commercialization of both assets.