Schrödinger, Inc.

Eli Lilly Acquires Ajax Therapeutics for $2.3 Billion to Advance Novel JAK2 Inhibitor for Blood Cancers

- Eli Lilly announced the acquisition of Ajax Therapeutics for up to $2.3 billion to gain access to AJ1-11095, a first-in-class Type II JAK2 inhibitor currently in Phase 1 development. - AJ1-11095 represents a novel approach to treating myelofibrosis and polycythemia vera by targeting a different JAK2 binding site than all currently approved therapies, potentially offering deeper and more durable disease control. - The investigational drug is designed to address treatment resistance issues with existing Type I JAK2 inhibitors, with proof-of-concept clinical data expected to be presented in late 2026. - The acquisition strengthens Lilly's oncology portfolio in blood cancers and positions the company to advance AJ1-11095 into registrational trials following dose selection in 2026.