Novo Nordisk (NYSE: NVO) today announced the closing of a definitive asset purchase and license agreement with Omeros Corporation (NASDAQ: OMER) for the candidate drug Zaltenibart (formerly OMS0906). Under the terms of the agreement, Novo will hold exclusive worldwide rights to develop, license, and commercialize Zaltenibart in all indications, while Omeros will receive up to USD 2.1 billion in payments, including an upfront amount of USD 340 million and tiered royalties on net sales.
Deal Highlights
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Exclusive Rights | Novo Nordisk gains global rights to Zaltenibart for all indications |
| Financial Structure | Up to USD 2.1 B: upfront + milestone + royalty payments |
| Omeros Benefits | USD 340 M upfront, additional development & commercial milestones |
| Pipeline Focus | Rare blood & kidney disorders; Phase II data for PNH in progress |
Zaltenibart – A Precision Complement Inhibitor
- Target – Inhibits MASP‑3, a key activator of the complement system’s alternative pathway.
- Mechanism – Antibody‑based blockade of MASP‑3 reduces complement dysregulation implicated in rare diseases such as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH).
- Clinical Evidence – Positive Phase II data in PNH; ongoing studies aim to confirm efficacy and safety.
Strategic Rationale
- Novo Nordisk’s Expansion – Adds a high‑potential rare‑disease asset to its growing portfolio, positioning the company for global Phase III testing in PNH and other indications.
- Omeros’ Monetization – Converts a proven biologic into a lucrative revenue stream while retaining rights to its broader MASP‑3 small‑molecule pipeline.
- Market Opportunity – Rare blood disorders represent an underserved therapeutic space with substantial unmet need and high pricing potential.
Forward‑Looking Statements
This release contains forward‑looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially.-Fineline Info & Tech
