Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS) has recently entered into a licensing agreement with Cyon Therapeutics, Inc. for the licensing of LGT209, a proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) antibody.
Licensing Agreement
Under the agreement, Cyon Therapeutics now possesses global rights to use LGT209 in systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), and sepsis treatment and prevention. The licensing agreement also includes commercial and regulatory milestones.
Cyon Therapeutics hopes to commence a Phase II clinical trial as soon as possible. John Boyd, Cyon Therapeutics CEO, noted that the company seeks to enroll patients who are at the early stages of sepsis. Through this, Cyon Therapeutics can potentially minimize the morbidity and mortality associated with the condition.
The successfully completed Phase I clinical trial has already established the efficacy and tolerability of LGT209 in controlling cholesterol levels. As per these results, the PCSK9 antibody is expected to improve— if not to completely prevent— the outcomes among sepsis patients.
Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) Partnership
On Friday, it was revealed that Novartis had signed a three-year partnership deal with KRCS to provide enhanced care, prevention, and treatment of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which primarily include cancers, cardiovascular (CV) diseases, and chronic respiratory diseases, in Kenya.
NCDs have long been a growing concern in Kenya. The latest data suggest that NCDs account for 27% of fatalities in the nation; 40% of hospital deaths; and nearly 50% of inpatient admissions. At these rates, NCDs are expected to account for about 60% of fatalities in Kenya by 2030.
Globally, NCDs are said to be the main causes of deaths. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs led to approximately 38 million deaths four years ago.
In response to the growing dilemma in Kenya, Novartis and KRCS will work hand-in-hand to train healthcare providers and other volunteers to improve the overall treatment for NCDs. KRCS will also acquire the Novartis Access portfolio as part of the effort. Moreover, heightened focus will be given to the refugees in Dadaab and Kakuma, where thousands of individuals are widely suffering from asthma, cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. An NCD prevention and management program has also been launched in Nairobi and Nyeri to inculcate awareness on NCDs.
