Septerna, Inc. and Novo Nordisk have announced a global collaboration to develop oral small molecule medicines for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other cardiometabolic diseases. The partnership aims to leverage Novo Nordisk’s expertise in these fields alongside Septerna’s proficiency in G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) drug discovery.
The collaboration will initially focus on four development programs targeting GPCRs, including GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors. Marcus Schindler of Novo Nordisk stated that the company is building on its scientific leadership in obesity and diabetes by developing a broad pipeline across various targets and modalities.
Jeffrey Finer of Septerna emphasized the potential of this partnership to create groundbreaking oral medicines while advancing Septerna’s diverse portfolio of GPCR-targeted programs. Under the agreement terms, Septerna stands to receive approximately $2.2 billion from Novo Nordisk through upfront payments and milestone payments.
Research activities will be conducted jointly until development candidate selection. Afterward, Novo Nordisk will take sole responsibility for global development and commercialization activities. The agreement includes customary closing conditions with an expected closure in the second quarter of 2025.
Septerna has developed proprietary technologies known as the Native Complex Platform to isolate and reconstitute GPCRs outside cells into complexes that mimic natural cell membranes. This platform allows screening billions of candidate molecules to target specific GPCRs effectively.
Septerna is a biotechnology company focused on GPCR drug discovery with a pipeline targeting endocrinology, immunology, inflammation, and metabolic diseases. Novo Nordisk is a global healthcare company founded in 1923 with a strong focus on chronic diseases like diabetes.
