Novartis is to acquire Excellergy, a private biotech company developing next-generation anti-IgE therapies for IgE-driven diseases. The acquisition includes Exl-111, a half-life extended, high-affinity anti-IgE antibody that is currently in phase 1.
Exl-111 is designed as a next-generation extension of validated biology established by anti-IgE therapy. Building on Novartis’ experience with IgE biology, Exl-111 has the potential to complement Novartis’ existing allergy portfolio across allergic conditions and patient settings.
IgE is a central driver of multiple allergic diseases and, if the mechanism for Exl-111 is confirmed clinically, it could have multiple benefits. These include: 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.
Paying up to $2bn in upfront and milestone payments, Novartis expects the acquisition transaction to close in H2 2026.
Fiona Marshall, President of Biomedical Research at Novartis, said: “Excellergy adds a differentiated next-generation anti-IgE programme that builds on biology Novartis knows well, supported by preclinical evidence and early clinical pharmacokinetic data.
“Exl-111 is designed to go beyond conventional anti-IgE therapy, with the potential to deliver faster and deeper suppression of IgE signalling as well as improved symptom control.
“This proposed acquisition strengthens our allergy portfolio.”