By Fineline Cube 
Swiss pharmaceutical giant Novartis (NYSE: NVS) is set to acquire U.S.-based Regulus Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ: RGLS), a biopharma company focused on microRNA drug development. The deal is expected to close in the second half of 2024.
Deal Structure and Terms
According to the agreement, Novartis will acquire Regulus for an initial payment of USD 7.00 per share in cash at closing, totaling USD 0.8 billion. In addition, Regulus shareholders will receive a contingent value right (CVR) providing for payment of USD 7.00 per share, contingent upon the achievement of a milestone related to regulatory approval of Regulus’ lead product candidate, farabursen. If the milestone is achieved, the total consideration would be approximately USD 1.7 billion.
Farabursen and ADPKD Treatment
Farabursen is expected to provide a first-in-class treatment option for patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). The drug has demonstrated advantages over existing standard therapies in terms of efficacy, tolerability, and safety, positioning it as a potential breakthrough in the treatment of ADPKD.-Fineline Info & Tech