AbbVie announced today that it has completed its previously disclosed acquisition of Landos Biopharma, Inc. With this transaction now closed, Landos and its lead investigational asset NX-13 for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have become part of AbbVie’s pipeline.

NX-13 is an orally administered, first-in-class NLRX1 agonist currently in Phase 2 clinical development for the treatment of moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC). By regulating immunometabolism and inflammation through NLRX1 activation, NX-13 offers a novel dual mechanism of action that is both anti-inflammatory and facilitates epithelial repair. This unique approach could potentially address key aspects of IBD pathogenesis.

“Many people with IBD struggle to achieve or maintain remission despite available therapies, continuing to experience debilitating symptoms,” said Kori Wallace, M.D., Ph.D., Vice President and Global Head of Immunology Clinical Development at AbbVie. “NX-13 complements our immunology portfolio and may represent a transformative new way to treat UC and Crohn’s disease. We are excited to advance this promising candidate as part of our commitment to developing innovative treatments for those in need.”

AbbVie initially announced the planned acquisition of Landos in March 2024, with AbbVie agreeing to pay $20.42 per share in cash upfront plus a potential contingent value right payment of up to $11.14 per share upon achieving certain milestones. The total potential deal value was approximately $212.5 million.

By adding NX-13 to its pipeline, AbbVie enhances its existing immunology portfolio and strengthens its position in developing novel therapies for IBD and other autoimmune conditions. The company aims to rapidly progress NX-13’s development and potentially bring a much-needed new treatment option to patients with UC and Crohn’s disease.

Read the press release. 

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