2seventy bio Sells Hemophilia A Candidate and Gene Editing Tech to Novo Nordisk for $40M

2seventy bio, Inc. (Nasdaq: TSVT) has successfully finalized an asset purchase agreement with Novo Nordisk. According to the terms of this agreement, Novo Nordisk has acquired 2seventy bio’s Hemophilia A program and the rights to its in vivo gene editing technology, with specific exclusions for oncology and gene editing for cell therapies designed to treat autoimmune diseases. As a result of this transaction, the 2seventy bio team currently working on the Hemophilia A program will transition to Novo Nordisk to continue advancing the research and development of this technology.

This program, which originated from a 2019 research agreement, aims to develop a gene editing therapy for individuals with Hemophilia A. Moving forward, 2seventy bio will concentrate solely on the commercialization and ongoing development of Abecma (idecabtagene vicleucel), a BCMA-targeted CAR T cell therapy for multiple myeloma, in collaboration with Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS).

Chip Baird, CEO of 2seventy bio, expressed satisfaction with the completion of the agreement with Novo Nordisk, highlighting the potential benefits for both the team and the scientific advancements of the program. Baird emphasized that Novo Nordisk has been a trusted partner over the past five years, and he believes that their leadership will further the development of new treatment approaches for Hemophilia A patients. He also extended gratitude to the 2seventy team members joining Novo Nordisk for their significant contributions and reiterated the company’s commitment to delivering Abecma to as many patients as possible.

Karina Thorn, Corporate Vice President of Global Nucleic Acid Therapies Research at Novo Nordisk, shared her enthusiasm about expanding Novo Nordisk’s genome editing technology platforms. She emphasized the company's dedication to developing curative therapies, including advancing next-generation in vivo genome editing programs aimed at providing Hemophilia A patients with a life free from factor replacement therapy. Thorn also welcomed the 2seventy bio colleagues to Novo Nordisk, expressing optimism about leveraging the megaTAL technology for groundbreaking therapeutic applications.

Per the agreement, 2seventy bio is set to receive up to $40 million in potential payments. The Hemophilia A program will be transferred to Novo Nordisk, and the existing collaboration agreement will be terminated. The divestiture also includes the transfer of 2seventy bio’s megaTAL technology and a license to the underlying intellectual property.

2seventy bio's name symbolizes their mission of maximizing time for patients, particularly those affected by cancer. The company aims to translate innovative cell therapies into practical treatments at a rapid pace, reflecting their commitment to provide more time for the people they serve. Their first FDA-approved CAR T cell therapy for multiple myeloma, Abecma, is a testament to their dedication to this mission. 2seventy bio maintains a strong focus on their core values and culture, ensuring that their work remains genuine and patient-centered.