Novartis has announced its acquisition of Mariana Oncology, a preclinical-stage biotech company focused on developing novel radioligand therapies (RLTs) for cancers with high unmet needs. This move enriches Novartis’s RLT pipeline and augments its research infrastructure and clinical supply capabilities, aligning with its strategic focus on oncology and RLT innovation.
The acquisition includes a diverse portfolio of RLT programs targeting solid tumor indications like breast, prostate, and lung cancers. Among these is MC-339, an actinium-based RLT undergoing investigation for small cell lung cancer. Fiona Marshall, President of Biomedical Research at Novartis, emphasized the significance of this acquisition in fortifying the company’s position in RLT technology, envisioning the collaboration with Mariana as pivotal in advancing next-generation RLTs for cancer patients.
RLTs, characterized by their precision targeting of tumors through a tumor-binding molecule combined with a therapeutic radioisotope, represent a promising avenue in oncology treatment. Shiva Malek, Global Head of Oncology for Biomedical Research at Novartis, highlighted the commitment to expanding RLT research to encompass a wider array of cancer types, emphasizing the acquisition’s contribution to Novartis’s pursuit of scientific leadership in this domain.
Novartis’s existing RLT portfolio includes approved therapies for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer and certain types of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. The company’s ongoing efforts encompass a spectrum of studies and assets, focusing on prostate cancer while also exploring other disease areas and novel RLT candidates. The agreement entails an upfront payment of USD 1 billion, with additional payments totaling USD 750 million contingent upon achieving specified milestones.