Novartis to acquire Anthos Therapeutics for $925M, enhancing cardiovascular pipeline

BASEL, Switzerland I February 11, 2025 – Novartis has announced its acquisition of Anthos Therapeutics, Inc., a Boston-based clinical-stage biopharmaceutical firm. Anthos is known for abelacimab, an advanced medication aimed at preventing strokes and systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation. This acquisition aligns with Novartis' strategy to strengthen its cardiovascular segment, capitalizing on its expertise in the area. The deal, pending customary closing conditions, further positions Novartis as a leader in innovative cardiovascular treatments.

Anthos Therapeutics was established in 2019 by Blackstone Life Sciences and Novartis, having progressed abelacimab through clinical stages under a Novartis license. Abelacimab is a novel, highly selective, fully human monoclonal antibody targeting Factor XI to offer hemostasis-sparing anticoagulation. Phase 2 trials have shown its potential in significantly reducing bleeding incidents compared to standard care anticoagulants in atrial fibrillation patients. Currently, three Phase 3 trials are underway. These trials include studies for patients with atrial fibrillation and those at risk of arterial and venous clots, such as cancer-associated thrombosis.

Dr. Shreeram Aradhye, Novartis' President, Development, and Chief Medical Officer, expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration. He highlighted that abelacimab represents a promising, first-in-class treatment that could offer a safer approach to stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation and cancer-related thrombosis. The collaboration with Anthos Therapeutics supports Novartis' commitment to expanding its cardiovascular portfolio, which is dedicated to providing transformative treatments for heart disease patients globally.

Abelacimab has received significant regulatory attention. In July 2022, the medication received Fast Track Designation from the FDA for treating cancer-associated thrombosis. It was similarly designated in September 2022 for preventing stroke and systemic embolism in atrial fibrillation patients.

Dr. David Soergel, Global Head of Cardiovascular, Renal, and Metabolism Development at Novartis, emphasized the potential of abelacimab. He expressed pride in its origins at Novartis and acknowledged the significant progress made by the Anthos Therapeutics team. With the acquisition, Novartis aims to reintegrate abelacimab into its cardiovascular, renal, and metabolism (CRM) pipeline.

Regarding transaction specifics, Novartis will pay an upfront sum of USD 925 million upon closing, subject to standard adjustments, with possible additional payments of up to USD 2.15 billion contingent on achieving certain regulatory and sales milestones. The transaction is scheduled to finalize in the first half of 2025, pending customary closing conditions.

Abelacimab operates by binding to Factor XI, effectively inhibiting its activation. This action mimics a natural deficiency in Factor XI, which is known to provide protection against thromboembolic diseases. Novartis' acquisition of Anthos Therapeutics and the promising advancements of abelacimab underscore the company's dedication to pioneering solutions that address significant unmet medical needs in cardiovascular health.

Novartis continues to position itself as a leader in innovative medicine, with a focus on transforming lives and empowering patients and healthcare professionals in tackling serious diseases. With a broad reach impacting over 250 million people globally, Novartis remains at the forefront of medical innovation.