Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) includes conditions that cause inflammation in the colon and small intestine.
Pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly is investing $10 million upfront to acquire global rights to a drug program from Organovo Holdings, a company based in San Diego. This program focuses on a drug called FXR314, which targets a receptor involved in metabolism and liver health. The drug is being developed to treat IBD and has shown promise in a liver condition called MASH.
Lilly’s deal with Organovo includes potential additional payments up to $50 million if certain milestones are reached. Organovo’s stock rose significantly after the announcement of the deal.
FXR314 has shown positive results in reducing liver fat in patients with MASH during Phase II trials. Despite challenges faced by other companies in developing similar drugs, Organovo is optimistic about FXR314’s potential. They plan to start testing it for IBD in late 2025.
Meanwhile, other companies are exploring different approaches for treating MASH. For instance, Madrigal Pharmaceuticals’ drug Rezdiffra was recently approved by the FDA, and Lilly has invested in another treatment from OliX Pharmaceuticals.
In summary, Eli Lilly is betting on Organovo’s FXR314 drug for treating IBD, showing how pharmaceutical companies are exploring new avenues in treating inflammatory and metabolic diseases.