Sentynl Acquires Zokinvy® for Progeria Treatment from Eiger BioPharmaceuticals

Sentynl Therapeutics, a subsidiary of the Zydus Group, has acquired global rights to Zokinvy, a treatment for the ultra-rare genetic disorder progeria. The acquisition was finalized on May 3, 2024, following a successful bid during Eiger BioPharmaceuticals' bankruptcy auction. The deal, approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, was valued at approximately $45.2 million, adjusted for certain factors. Under the new ownership, Sentynl will oversee the manufacturing and commercialization of Zokinvy worldwide.

Zokinvy, also known by its generic name lonafarnib, is the first FDA-approved treatment for Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) and processing-deficient progeroid laminopathies (PDPL). These ultra-rare genetic conditions cause premature aging and significantly impact young patients' mortality, often leading to heart disease by an average age of 14.5 years. The medication works by blocking the accumulation of defective proteins that cause cellular instability and premature aging. The drug has demonstrated a statistically significant survival benefit, extending the lives of children and young adults suffering from these conditions.

Following its initial FDA approval in 2020, Zokinvy received regulatory approval in the European Union and Great Britain in 2022 and in Japan in January 2024. Throughout its development, Zokinvy has been supported by the efforts of The Progeria Research Foundation (PRF) and clinical studies at Boston Children's Hospital. The PRF has played a pivotal role in global awareness, research, and treatment advancements for progeria since its founding in 1999.

Dr. Sharvil Patel, Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences, expressed that the acquisition aligns with Zydus's mission to enhance their portfolio of treatments for rare and orphan diseases. He emphasized the importance of supporting patients through innovative therapies that improve quality of life. Matt Heck, President and CEO of Sentynl, echoed this sentiment, noting the company's commitment to providing best-in-class global access to Zokinvy and serving affected patients and their families.

David Apelian, CEO of Eiger BioPharmaceuticals, and Audrey Gordon, President and Executive Director of PRF, also shared their optimism about the acquisition. They highlighted the shared commitment to advancing treatments for life-threatening rare conditions and the continued research efforts to find a cure for progeria.

Eiger BioPharmaceuticals, currently navigating Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, had previously licensed the worldwide rights for lonafarnib for progeria treatment from MSD (Merck & Co., Inc.). In Japan, Eiger collaborated with AnGes for the local distribution of Zokinvy, which has been designated as an orphan drug by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.

Sentynl, established in the U.S. and acquired by the Zydus Group in 2017, focuses on developing and commercializing treatments for rare diseases. Their acquisition of Zokinvy represents a significant step in their mission to address unmet medical needs in the biopharmaceutical sector.

Zydus Lifesciences, the parent company of Sentynl, is a global lifesciences organization committed to creating innovative healthcare solutions. With a significant presence in oncology and rare diseases, Zydus employs over 26,000 people worldwide, including a robust team of scientists dedicated to research and development.

Eiger BioPharmaceuticals continues to focus on developing treatments for rare metabolic diseases, with their lead product candidate, avexitide, aimed at treating post-bariatric hypoglycemia and congenital hyperinsulinism. Despite its financial challenges, Eiger remains dedicated to its mission of addressing rare disease treatments.

The Progeria Research Foundation continues to play a critical role in supporting research and treatment advancements for progeria, aiming to improve the health and lifespan of affected children worldwide. Their ongoing efforts contribute to the scientific community's understanding and potential future treatments for this devastating condition.