Novartis acquires Selexys Pharmaceuticals and SelG1 antibody for reduction of pain crises in SCD

Deal followed results of Phase II SUSTAIN study of SelG1 in reduction of vaso-occlusive pain crises, a major complication of SCD with limited treatment options.

"SCD affects millions of people around the world and there are limited therapies available for treatment of vaso-occlusive pain crises, a very common complication of the disease," said Bruno Strigini, CEO of Novartis Oncology. "With this acquisition, Novartis is able to leverage its leadership in hematology research to advance development of a potential new treatment option for patients living with this debilitating condition."

"We would like to extend our gratitude to all of the dedicated patients, physicians and nurses who participated in the SUSTAIN study of SelG1 in SCD," said Dr Scott Rollins, former President and CEO of Selexys Pharmaceuticals. "Further, the acquisition of Selexys by Novartis represents an important step in the continued development of SelG1, a novel, potential first-in-class therapy for patients with this underserved life-threatening disease."

Novartis obtained the exclusive right to acquire Selexys and SelG1 in 2012. Prior to the acquisition, Selexys Pharmaceutical Corporation was a privately held biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Terms of the deal could total up to $665 million in upfront, acquisition and milestone payments.