Mar. 20 at 11:07 AM
$NVS Novartis to acquire Pikavation Therapeutics from Synnovation Therapeutics
Novartis announced that it has entered into an agreement with Synnovation Therapeutics to acquire SNV4818, a pan-mutant-selective PI3Kalpha inhibitor, exploring a next-generation approach for the treatment of patients with HR+/HER2- breast cancer and potentially other solid tumor indications. "SNV4818 is an oral drug currently being evaluated in a Phase 1/2 study for breast cancer and other advanced solid tumors. The biology of mutated PI3Kalpha in HR+/HER2- breast cancer is well-understood, with approximately 40% of HR+/HER2- breast cancer patients potentially facing worse disease prognosis due to the presence of PIK3CA mutations in their tumors.
The program is aligned with the Novartis commitment to developing treatments that improve the lives of patients with breast cancer. It fits naturally alongside CDK inhibitors as well as endocrine (hormonal) therapies as part of a potential combination regimen," the company stated. Under the terms of the agreement, Novartis will pay
$2B upfront and up to
$1B in milestone payments to Synnovation Therapeutics to acquire Pikavation Therapeutics, Inc., a wholly- owned subsidiary of Synnovation that holds a portfolio of pan-mutant selective PI3Kalpha inhibitor programs, including SNV4818.
The transaction is expected to close in H1 2026, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. "While mutated PI3Kalpha is a well-established driver in HR+/HER2- breast cancer, there remains a challenge in achieving effective pathway inhibition with a tolerable therapeutic profile," said Shreeram Aradhye, M.D., President of Development at Novartis. "SNV4818 applies new mutant-selective chemistry to more precisely target tumor biology while sparing normal cells. This approach has the potential to translate proven biology into improved tolerability and more durable benefit for patients through precision medicine."
