Novo Nordisk has entered into an agreement with Ascendis Pharma A/S, gaining exclusive global rights to Ascendis' TransCon technology. This collaboration aims to develop, manufacture, and commercialize Novo Nordisk products targeting metabolic diseases, including obesity and type 2 diabetes, with potential applications in select cardiovascular areas. The deal also allows Novo Nordisk to expand TransCon-based metabolic products into other therapeutic areas.
The primary focus of the collaboration is a once-monthly GLP-1 receptor agonist, initially aimed at treating obesity and type 2 diabetes. Brian Vandahl, Senior Vice President of Global Research Technologies at Novo Nordisk, stated that less frequent administration of therapies could benefit both societies and individual patients, marking it as a key focus for Novo Nordisk. The company already manufactures Wegovy, a blockbuster GLP-1 receptor agonist used for weight management.
Under the terms of the agreement, Ascendis Pharma will receive up to $285 million in upfront, development, and regulatory milestone payments for the lead program. Additionally, Ascendis is eligible for sales-based milestone payments and tiered royalties. For any additional products developed for metabolic or cardiovascular diseases, Ascendis could receive up to $77.5 million in milestone payments, along with royalties.
Ascendis Pharma will spearhead early-stage development, with Novo Nordisk funding the process. Novo Nordisk will then take over clinical development, manufacturing, and commercialization. The transaction is currently pending regulatory approval and is expected to be finalized by the end of 2024.
