Denmark-based pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk (NYSE: NVO) announced a significant deal this week, valued at up to USD 1.3 billion, for the acquisition of the potential best-in-class antihypertensive drug ocedurenone from Singapore’s KBP Biosciences. The transaction, anticipated to close by the end of the year, is subject to meeting customary conditions and regulatory approvals.
KBP Biosciences’ Late-Stage Development
KBP Biosciences’ oral candidate, ocedurenone, is currently in the late stages of development for the treatment of uncontrolled hypertension in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). The drug has shown clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvements in systolic blood pressure (SBP) during a Phase II trial, highlighting its potential as a novel treatment option in this patient population.
Novo Nordisk’s Development Plans
Novo Nordisk plans to further develop ocedurenone’s potential in cardiovascular disease (CVD) and additional CKD indications. With promising Phase II results, Novo expects to advance the drug into Phase III studies in the coming years, aiming to expand its portfolio in the cardiovascular and renal therapeutic areas.
KBP Biosciences’ Background and Investors
According to Fineline Info & Tech analysis, KBP Biosciences operates a subsidiary in Shanghai and is partially backed by Chinese investors, including Ping An. This strategic acquisition by Novo Nordisk not only underscores the global interest in innovative treatments for hypertension and CKD but also highlights the growing role of Asian biotech firms in the development of novel pharmaceuticals.-Fineline Info & Tech
