The companies will initially commence four development programmes for potential small molecule therapies directed to one or more select G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) targets, including the GLP-1, GIP and glucagon receptors.

“Novo Nordisk has a rich history of innovation in obesity and diabetes. We are building on our scientific leadership in this space and developing a broad pipeline across various targets and modalities, including peptides and small molecules. Leveraging different modalities creates important optionality in our pipeline in terms of potential targets, dosing regimens and scalability,” says Marcus Schindler, executive vice president and chief scientific officer of Novo Nordisk. “Septerna has demonstrated strong capabilities in GPCR drug discovery, and we are excited about the opportunity to develop oral small molecule medicines directed at multiple targets.””

GPCRs

GPCRs represent the largest and most diverse family of cell membrane receptors, with hundreds of different GPCRs regulating physiological processes in nearly every organ system of the human body.

Using its Native Complex Platform, Septerna aims to unlock the full potential of GPCR therapies. The company is focused on the discovery and development of a pipeline of oral small molecules for multiple therapeutic areas, initially focused on endocrinology, immunology and inflammation, and metabolic diseases.

USD 2.2 billion

Under the terms of the agreement, Septerna is eligible to receive approximately USD 2.2 billion from Novo Nordisk across an upfront payment and research, development and commercial milestone payments. This includes more than USD 200 million in upfront and near-term milestone payments. Septerna is also eligible to receive tiered royalties on global net sales of marketed products. Novo Nordisk will cover all research and development expenses for partnered programs under the collaboration.

The companies will jointly conduct research activities from discovery through development candidate selection. Starting at IND-enabling activities, Novo Nordisk will have sole responsibility for all global development and commercialisation activities. In addition, Septerna has the right to opt in to a worldwide profit share for one program in the collaboration in lieu of future milestones and royalties for that product candidate.