Johnson & Johnson Expands Immunology Portfolio with $1.25B Acquisition of Yellow Jersey Therapeutics

Acquisition:
Johnson & Johnson acquired Yellow Jersey Therapeutics, a subsidiary of Numab Therapeutics, for $1.25 billion to gain rights to NM26, a bispecific antibody for treating atopic dermatitis (AD)145.

NM26 Details:
NM26 targets two pathways, IL-4Rα and IL-31, which are involved in Th2-mediated skin inflammation and itching, respectively. It is ready to enter Phase 2 studies145.

Strategic Focus:
J&J aims to build a portfolio of differentiated and complementary bispecific antibodies in immunology, focusing on diseases like AD and other inflammatory skin conditions24.

Unmet Need:
Nearly three-quarters of people with AD do not achieve remission with current treatments, highlighting the need for more effective therapies1.

Partnerships:
Numab Therapeutics has partnerships with other pharmaceutical companies, including Kaken Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Ono Pharmaceutical45.

Deal Impact:
The acquisition is expected to close in the second half of 2024 and will result in an in-process research and development charge of approximately $1.25 billion in the third quarter of 202414.

Sources:

1. https://www.jnj.com/media-center/press-releases/johnson-johnson-strengthens-pipeline-to-lead-in-atopic-dermatitis-with-the-completion-of-the-acquisition-of-yellow-jersey-therapeutics-gaining-ownership-of-nm26

2. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/j-j-gains-another-bispecific-105400029.html

4. https://www.biospace.com/j-and-j-inks-1-25b-deal-to-buy-rights-to-atopic-dermatitis-candidate-from-numab-therapeutics

5. https://www.biospace.com/numab-therapeutics-announces-johnson-and-johnson-to-acquire-its-wholly-owned-subsidiary-yellow-jersey-therapeutics-including-rights-to-nm26-a-bi-specific-antibody-for-the-treatment-of-atopic-dermatitis