Novartis announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Excellergy, a private biotechnology company focused on next-generation anti-IgE therapies, in a deal valued at up to $2 billion, including upfront and milestone payments. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.
The acquisition is aimed at strengthening Novartis’ immunology strategy, particularly in food allergies and other IgE-driven diseases. The deal will add Excellergy’s lead asset, Exl-111, to Novartis’ pipeline. Exl-111 is a half-life extended, high-affinity anti-IgE antibody currently in Phase 1 development.
Novartis said Exl-111 is designed to go beyond conventional anti-IgE therapies by dissociating receptor-bound IgE, which could enable faster and deeper suppression of IgE signaling. This differentiated mechanism may support improved symptom control, earlier relief, and more convenient dosing across multiple allergic conditions, including food allergies, asthma, and urticaria, and may also have potential use in pediatric populations.
The company noted that the acquisition builds on its established expertise in IgE biology and complements its existing allergy portfolio. Novartis continues to focus on advancing innovative therapies in immunology to improve outcomes for patients living with chronic allergic diseases.
The move aligns with Novartis’ broader strategy of investing in early-stage, high-potential assets that can enhance its pipeline and reinforce leadership in key therapeutic areas.
KEY QUOTE:
“Excellergy adds a differentiated next-generation anti-IgE program that builds on biology Novartis knows well, supported by preclinical evidence and early clinical pharmacokinetic data. Exl-111 is designed to go beyond conventional anti-IgE therapy, with the potential to deliver faster and deeper suppression of IgE signaling as well as improved symptom control. This proposed acquisition strengthens our allergy portfolio and reflects our strategy of advancing innovative bold science to bring meaningful additional benefits to patients.”
Fiona Marshall, President Of Biomedical Research At Novartis
