China-based Abogen Biosciences has agreed to grant Novartis an exclusive worldwide license to ABO2203, an mRNA-encoded in vivo CD19×CD3 T-cell engager being developed for autoimmune diseases, for an upfront payment of USD 575 million. If Novartis exercises all options across the collaboration, Abogen could receive up to approximately USD 7.2 billion in additional development, regulatory, and commercial milestones, plus royalties.
ABO2203 uses lipid nanoparticle-delivered mRNA to drive transient in vivo production of a CD19×CD3 T-cell engager, with the aim of depleting pathogenic B cells and enabling immune-system reset. The candidate is in an early Phase I study in patients with refractory autoimmune diseases.
Initial human data published in Cell in September 2026 showed rapid and complete peripheral B-cell depletion in three patients with refractory secondary immune thrombocytopenia, with sustained bone-marrow depletion and clinical improvement through six months of follow-up. No cytokine release syndrome was reported, and treatment-related adverse events were limited to Grade 1 or 2.
Novartis also receives exclusive options to license next-generation therapeutic assets developed on Abogen's AI- and automation-driven mRNA and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platform, which spans mRNA design, formulation development, and large-scale GMP manufacturing. The USD 7.2 billion milestone ceiling is contingent on exercise of all options and achievement of development, regulatory, and commercial milestones across all programs; Abogen may also receive royalties on future product sales. The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including required regulatory clearances.