Almirall, Novo Nordisk Reach Licensing Agreement Surrounding IL-21 Blocking Monoclonal Antibodies

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Almirall S.A., a dermatology-focused pharmaceutical company, has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Novo Nordisk for rights to NN-8828. an IL-21 blocking monoclonal antibody. Per the deal, Almirall will now have global rights to both develop and commercialize NN-8828 in the immune inflammatory dermatological diseases sector, along with other fields.

NN-8828 targets the cytokine IL-21 and was created by Novo Nordisk. Currently, it is up to Phase ll in non-dermatological indications. According to the company, NN-8828 has the ability to restrict the activation of IL-21’s downstream signaling pathways, while helping to prevent the pathophysiological effects that this cytokine can have on immune cells, making it a viable choice in terms of treating inflammatory and autoimmune skin disorders.

The deal also specifies that Novo Nordisk will not only be given an upfront payment, but will also be paid development and commercial milestone payments that are dependent on global sales.

"At Almirall, we are dedicated to developing the best possible treatments for patients suffering from skin diseases,” says Dr. Karl Ziegelbauer, Almirall’s chief scientific officer. “This new partnership builds on our innovation strategy and will allow us to explore the innovative approach of IL-21 blockage as a possible new pathway to effectively treat a range of dermatological diseases.”

Reference

Almirall Licenses an Anti-IL-21 Monoclonal Antibody From Novo Nordisk to Develop It as a First-in-Class Agent in Dermatology. Business Wire. News release. February 19, 2024. Accessed February 20, 2024. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240218250953/en