Agreement strengthens firm’s inflammation and oncology therapeutic development program.

Novosom purchased an exclusive option from Isis Pharmaceuticals related to antisense inhibitors targeting the CD40 membrane protein for all indications. If exercised within six months, Novosom will acquire an exclusive, worldwide license.


CD40 is a validated target for both inflammatory diseases and B-cell cancers. Novosom plans to target CD40 for indications such as Crohn’s disease, transplant, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and multiple sclerosis. If acquired, the license from Isis would include rights to the target and to oligonucleotides targeting CD40 and incorporating Isis’ second-generation antisense chemistry, 2′ MOE oligonucleotides. 


Novosom is using its Smarticles® technology to enable systemic delivery of antisense targeting CD40. This encapsulated antisense approach has demonstrated targeted delivery to specific cell types with a rapid onset of action, according to the company.

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