Abogen Licenses RNA Technology to Novartis for Up to $7.2 Billion
Abogen Biosciences has entered into a licensing and option agreement with Novartis to advance RNA-based therapeutics. The deal includes the lead asset ABO2203 and options for future programs.
Chinese biotechnology firm Abogen Biosciences announced it has entered into a licensing and option agreement with pharmaceutical giant Novartis. The deal grants Novartis worldwide exclusive rights to develop and commercialize Abogen's mRNA-encoded T-cell engager, ABO2203, and provides options for other RNA platform-based programs.
ABO2203 is designed to reset B cells by directing the body's own cells to produce T-cell engagers in vivo. This approach offers a potentially differentiated mechanism for B-cell depletion, aiming to treat autoimmune diseases. Novartis will also have exclusive options to license future therapeutic assets developed on Abogen's RNA platform.
The agreement includes an upfront payment of $575 million to Abogen. Should Novartis exercise all options and achieve all development and commercial milestones, Abogen is eligible for up to approximately $7.2 billion in potential milestone payments, plus future royalties on product sales.
Abogen CEO Bo Ying stated the agreement is a significant milestone, demonstrating the platform's potential beyond prophylactic vaccines. Novartis views mRNA-encoded T-cell engagers as an innovative complement to existing autoimmune disease therapies.
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Abogen has previously conducted early-stage clinical studies with ABO2203.