Novo Nordisk to acquire Calibrium and MB2
Acquisition expands Novo Nordisk’s portfolio of diabetes and obesity projects
Novo Nordisk has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Calibrium and MB2, two privately held biopharmaceutical research companies based in Indiana, USA.
Formed in 2013 and 2014, respectively, Calibrium and MB2 are focused on developing a portfolio of novel drug candidates for the treatment of diabetes and related metabolic diseases. The acquisition will expand Novo Nordisk’s portfolio of projects and intellectual property rights in diabetes and obesity and provide a basis to grow Novo Nordisk’s research presence in the US.
Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, Executive Vice President and Chief Science Officer of Novo Nordisk says: ‘We are always on the lookout for ways to strengthen our leadership position within therapeutic proteins. This research team has demonstrated world-class capabilities in protein design and created a project portfolio of innovative product leads that fit very well with our aspirations in diabetes and obesity.’
Dr Richard DiMarchi, Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder of Calibrium and MB2 says: ‘It’s an honour to join the global Novo Nordisk research community. Their intense focus on metabolic diseases, which has led to numerous breakthrough protein-based medicines, aligns perfectly with my career-long priorities. I’m optimistic that together we can create novel, transformative therapies in the fight against the global epidemic of diabetes and obesity.’
The parties have agreed not to disclose the financial details of the transactions. The closing of the transaction is subject to US regulatory approval and is expected to occur during the third quarter of 2015.
