Pharmaceutical Titans Novo Nordisk and Septerna Partner Up to Conquer Obesity and Boost Cardiometabolic Health

In a bold move promising to revolutionise healthcare, Novo Nordisk and Septerna have forged an extraordinary alliance, aimed at exploiting cutting-edge science to combat obesity and other cardiometabolic illnesses. This collaboration promises to push the frontiers of medicine, specifically targeting G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) drug discovery, with an aim to develop multiple oral small molecule therapies.\Notably, the partnership is poised to capitalise on the shared strengths of both companies. Novo Nordisk, with its rich history in obesity and diabetes innovation, is a giant in the scientific realm, while Septerna’s capabilities in GPCR drug discovery presents significant potential.\GPCRs play a pivotal role in regulating physiological processes across numerous organ systems, presenting them as an untapped goldmine for therapeutic breakthroughs. With Septerna’s proprietary Native Complex Platform™, the company is committed to harnessing the full potential of GPCR therapies.\The ambitious collaboration and license agreement will initially see both companies commencing four development programs for small molecule therapies directed towards key GPCR targets. Future implications are extensive with the potential to influence treatment for obesity, type 2 diabetes and related diseases.\Under the agreement, Septerna is primed to receive approximately 2.2 billion US dollars in total, inclusive of an upfront payment, research, development and commercial milestone payments, of which more than 200 million dollars is expected in upfront and near-term payments. Novo Nordisk will cover all research and development expenses for the partnership’s programs.\Celebrated for bringing transformative therapies to market, Novo Nordisk’s standing in the field of metabolic disease presents it as an ideal ally for Septerna, as both companies seek to make groundbreaking strides in the world of pharmaceuticals. This monumental partnership not only signifies an opportunity to develop life-changing oral medicines, but also furnishes Septerna with the means and flexibility to progress their diverse portfolio of GPCR-targeted programs.