Ionis developed two therapies that have the potential to significantly reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with underlying lipid disorders. According to a statement, the therapies, which can lower lipidproteins by up to 90 per cent, are currently the subject of clinical studies.
Novartis aims to build a cardiovascular portfolio of targeted therapies to address unmet medical needs of high-risk patients, making Ionis’ two therapies of great interest to the Basel-based pharmaceutical group.
Novartis has therefore entered into an option agreement with Ionis and its affiliate Akcea Therapeutics to develop both treatments. Novartis also has the option to license and commercialise the two treatments following the achievement of specified development milestones. Upon in-licensing, Novartis will be responsible for global development and commercialisation of both treatments.
