Novo Nordisk and Omeros announce asset purchase and license agreement for Omeros’ clinical-stage MASP-3 inhibitor zaltenibart (OMS906)

Core Insights - Novo Nordisk has entered into a definitive asset purchase and license agreement with Omeros Corporation for the drug zaltenibart, which is in clinical development for rare blood and kidney disorders [1][2] Financial Terms - Under the agreement, Omeros is eligible to receive $340 million in upfront and near-term milestone payments, with a total potential of $2.1 billion including development and commercial milestones, plus tiered royalties on net sales [2][9] Drug Mechanism and Development - Zaltenibart is an antibody targeting MASP-3, a key activator of the complement system's alternative pathway, which is implicated in various rare diseases [3][10] - Positive Phase 2 data has been reported for zaltenibart in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), showing multiple advantages over other alternative pathway inhibitors [4][11] Strategic Positioning - Novo Nordisk aims to leverage its expertise to maximize the value of zaltenibart and develop it into a best-in-class treatment for rare blood and kidney disorders [4][7] - The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals [7] Broader Implications - Zaltenibart has potential applications across various rare blood and kidney disorders, enhancing Novo Nordisk's Rare Disease portfolio and supporting its growth ambitions in this area [11][12]