Alteogen Signs $3.2B ALT-B4 Licensing Deal With Novartis

Alteogen Inc. has signed an option and license agreement with Novartis to develop and commercialize subcutaneous products using ALT-B4, the recombinant human hyaluronidase powered by Alteogen’s Hybrozyme technology.

The agreement gives Novartis multiple options to secure exclusive rights to develop and commercialize subcutaneous formulations for several Novartis products using Alteogen’s ALT-B4, also known as berahyaluronidase alfa.

ALT-B4 is designed to convert biologics that are typically delivered through intravenous infusion into faster, more convenient subcutaneous formulations. The technology works by temporarily depolymerizing hyaluronan in the extracellular matrix, helping co-administered therapeutics disperse and absorb more efficiently. The deal underscores Novartis’ interest in expanding patient-friendly treatment options while advancing subcutaneous delivery for biologic medicines.

If Novartis exercises all options and all development and commercial milestones are met, Alteogen could receive up to US$3.223 billion in option exercise fees, milestone payments and royalties on net sales of products commercialized under the agreement.

“Novartis is a world-leading pharmaceutical company at the forefront of the global healthcare industry and has evaluated the application of ALT-B4 across multiple modalities for subcutaneous formulation development. This agreement demonstrates the technological strength and commercial value of Alteogen’s Hybrozyme platform,” said Tae-Yon Chun, Ph.D., CEO of Alteogen.