Eli Lilly Acquires Organovo’s FXR Program for $10M, Triggering 244% Stock Surge

Eli Lilly has acquired Organovo's farnesoid X receptor (FXR) program, including the lead asset FXR31416.

The deal includes an upfront cash payment of $9 million, with an additional $1 million to be transferred after 15 months1.

Organovo is eligible for up to $50 million in additional milestone payments based on development, regulatory, and commercial achievements1.

The acquisition grants Eli Lilly all commercial and intellectual property rights to the FXR program for global development6.

FXR314 has completed Phase II clinical trials for metabolic function-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and is designed to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)1.

Organovo's stock price skyrocketed by 244% following the announcement, closing at $1.27 per share7.

The deal is expected to bolster Eli Lilly's portfolio in the treatment of IBD, a chronic condition affecting millions worldwide6.

Keith Murphy, Organovo's Executive Chairman, expressed optimism about Eli Lilly's expertise benefiting the FXR314 program and ultimately patients6.

Organovo's proprietary technology creates 3D human tissues that closely replicate the natural composition, architecture, and function of human tissues, aiding in drug development6.

The acquisition represents a significant milestone for Organovo's efforts to advance medicines for IBD using insights from their proprietary 3D human tissue models10.

Sources:

1. https://3dprintingindustry.com/news/organovo-sells-fxr-ip-for-10-million-in-new-deal-with-eli-lilly-236830/

6. https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/eli-lilly-acquires-organovos-fxr-program-for-ibd-treatment-93CH-3889165

7. https://www.biopharmcatalyst.com/news/2025/organovo-onvo-acquired-by-eli-lilly-lly-bioaffinity-biaf-warrants-exercised

10. https://www.stocktitan.net/news/ONVO/organovo-s-fxr-program-including-fxr314-to-be-acquired-by-eli-lilly-najzjcao2okc.html