– Proposed acquisition strengthens Novartis immunology strategy in food allergy and other IgE-driven diseases
– Lead asset Exl-111 builds on proven IgE biology with a differentiated mechanism designed to dissociate receptor-bound IgE and drive faster, deeper pathway suppression
– Exl-111 would complement existing Novartis portfolio in allergy with potential to improve both symptom control and convenience
Novartis announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Excellergy, Inc., a private biotech company developing next-generation anti-IgE therapies for IgE-driven diseases. The proposed acquisition adds Exl-111, a half-life extended, high-affinity anti-IgE antibody in Phase 1.
The acquisition builds on deep Novartis expertise in IgE biology and a long-standing presence in allergic disease. Exl-111 is designed as a next-generation extension of validated biology established by anti-IgE therapy, with the potential to complement the Novartis existing allergy portfolio across a range of allergic conditions and patient settings.
“Excellergy adds a differentiated next-generation anti-IgE program that builds on biology Novartis knows well, supported by preclinical evidence and early clinical pharmacokinetic data,” said Fiona Marshall, President of Biomedical Research at Novartis. “Exl-111 is designed to go beyond conventional anti-IgE therapy, with the potential to deliver faster and deeper suppression of IgE signaling as well as improved symptom control. This proposed acquisition strengthens our allergy portfolio and reflects our strategy of advancing innovative bold science to bring meaningful additional benefits to patients.”
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IgE is a central driver of multiple allergic diseases. Unlike conventional anti-IgE approaches, Exl-111 is designed to dissociate receptor-bound IgE with the potential to drive faster and deeper Fc epsilon RI alpha (FcεRIα) downregulation. Preclinical studies and early human pharmacokinetic data from ongoing Phase 1 evaluation support a differentiated profile, with evidence of sustained exposure consistent with its half‑life‑extended design. If confirmed clinically, this mechanism could support earlier symptom relief, stronger disease control, more convenient dosing and broader use across food allergy, chronic spontaneous urticaria, chronic inducible urticaria, allergic asthma and other IgE-mediated diseases, including potentially in pediatric populations.
Transaction Details
Under the terms of the agreement, Novartis will pay up to USD 2 billion in upfront and milestone payments to acquire Excellergy. The transaction is expected to close in H2 2026, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.
At Novartis, we’re advancing bold science with the goal of bringing relief and a renewed sense of hope to people living with autoimmune diseases. Building on our legacy of first-in-class innovation across rheumatology, dermatology and allergy, and a diverse industry-leading pipeline, we’re committed to shaping what’s next in Immunology.
Novartis is an innovative medicines company. Every day, we work to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people’s lives so that patients, healthcare professionals and societies are empowered in the face of serious disease. Our medicines reach more than 300 million people worldwide.
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