USA— AbbVie, a leading American pharmaceutical company, has announced its acquisition of Celsius Therapeutics, Inc. (Celsius), a clinical-stage biotechnology firm specializing in developing innovative medicines for inflammatory diseases.
The acquisition, valued at US$250 million, underscores AbbVie’s strategic commitment to expanding its portfolio of treatments addressing serious health issues like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Celsius Therapeutics brings to AbbVie its lead therapeutic candidate, CEL383, which has successfully completed a Phase 1 clinical study targeting IBD.
CEL383 focuses on inhibiting TREM1, a gene identified as a significant driver of inflammation in IBD.
This gene is notably expressed on inflammatory monocytes and neutrophils, playing a pivotal role as an amplifier of inflammation across various cell types and pathways.
Preclinical assays have demonstrated CEL383’s ability to effectively block TREM1 signaling, thereby reducing levels of several inflammatory mediators.
This promising mechanism aligns with AbbVie’s mission to pioneer breakthrough treatments that alleviate patient suffering and improve outcomes in chronic inflammatory conditions.
Under the agreement, AbbVie has acquired all outstanding equity of Celsius Therapeutics for US$250 million in cash, subject to customary adjustments.
Dr. Kori Wallace, AbbVie’s Vice President and Global Head of Immunology Clinical Development, emphasized the significance of TREM1 as a key contributor to inflammation and pathology in IBD and related conditions.
Dr. Wallace expressed enthusiasm for advancing CEL383’s development, which aims to enhance remission outcomes for patients with IBD.
Commenting on the acquisition, Dr. Tariq Kassum, Celsius Therapeutics’ Chief Executive Officer, highlighted AbbVie’s shared excitement regarding the potential of TREM1 inhibition in treating inflammatory diseases.
Dr. Kassum extended his appreciation to the Celsius team for their tireless dedication to discovering CEL383, anticipating further strides in advancing this promising therapeutic program.
He underscored the collective aspiration to introduce a novel treatment approach that could significantly impact the management and prognosis of IBD.
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