Novartis has agreed to acquire Anthos Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on cardiovascular and thrombotic diseases, in a deal valued at up to $3.1 billion.
The acquisition will bring abelacimab, Anthos’ investigational Factor XI inhibitor, back under Novartis' control.
Anthos was founded in 2019 by Blackstone Life Sciences and Novartis, with exclusive global rights to develop and commercialize abelacimab. The drug is being investigated for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation and for reducing recurrent blood clots in patients with cancer.
"Abelacimab has the potential to be an important treatment option for the millions of patients globally with atrial fibrillation at high risk of stroke, and we could not have more conviction in the potential of this asset," said Bill Meury, CEO of Anthos. "With its deep roots in the cardiovascular space, Novartis is especially well positioned to advance abelacimab’s clinical development and bring this innovative product to healthcare providers and patients."
Clinical trial data has shown promise for abelacimab. In the AZALEA-TIMI 71 trial, the drug demonstrated a 62% reduction in major or clinically relevant non-major bleeding compared to rivaroxaban (Xarelto). The study was halted early after an independent committee determined abelacimab’s benefit was substantial.
Anthos is also conducting three phase 3 trials: LILAC-TIMI 76 for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation and ASTER and MAGNOLIA for cancer-associated thrombosis. Results from these studies are expected in late 2026.
Under the terms of the acquisition, Anthos shareholders will receive an upfront payment of $925 million, with additional payments tied to regulatory and commercial milestones. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2025, pending regulatory approval.
Goldman Sachs is serving as Anthos' lead financial advisor, with Morgan Stanley also advising. Goodwin Procter LLP is providing legal counsel.
