Sentynl acquires Zokinvy for progeria treatment

Sentynl Therapeutics, a subsidiary of Zydus Lifesciences, has announced its global acquisition of the Zokinvy (lonafarnib) program from Eiger BioPharmaceuticals. This acquisition focuses on the treatment of Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS) and processing-deficient progeroid laminopathies (PDPL), collectively known as progeria.

Zokinvy holds the distinction of being the first and only treatment approved by the US FDA that directly addresses both the cause and symptoms of these ultra-rare genetic conditions. Progeria is a fatal disorder that leads to premature aging in young patients, significantly increasing their mortality rates. The treatment is designated for use in individuals aged 12 months and older.

Since gaining US FDA approval in 2020, Zokinvy has also secured authorizations in various other regions. The European Union and Great Britain approved the treatment in 2022, and Japan followed suit in January this year.

The acquisition of Zokinvy emerged from a court-supervised sale process after Eiger BioPharmaceuticals and its subsidiaries filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in April of this year. An auction was subsequently held, with Sentynl Therapeutics winning the bid for a net base price of $45.2 million. The Bankruptcy Court approved the sale, and the transaction was completed on May 3.

With this acquisition, Sentynl Therapeutics now holds the worldwide rights to Zokinvy and will manage its manufacturing and commercialization. This move is expected to enhance Sentynl's portfolio of biopharmaceutical products, particularly those targeting rare and ultra-rare diseases.

Matt Heck, President and CEO of Sentynl, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition. "It is an honor to add Zokinvy to our portfolio of products that have a tangible impact on the lives of rare disease patients, whose needs are too often unmet or overlooked," said Heck. "We are firmly committed to providing best-in-class global access to Zokinvy and are eager to serve the patients and their families affected by progeria. We are grateful to Eiger and The Progeria Research Foundation for their dedicated effort to develop and secure the availability of this life-changing product."

The acquisition of Zokinvy represents a significant step for Sentynl in addressing the needs of patients suffering from ultra-rare conditions. By taking over the manufacturing and commercialization responsibilities, Sentynl aims to ensure that this vital treatment remains accessible to those who need it most. Through this acquisition, Sentynl Therapeutics continues to demonstrate its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for patients with rare diseases.