Novartis Completes Acquisition of Regulus Therapeutics

Novartis has officially completed its acquisition of Regulus Therapeutics Inc., solidifying its strategic focus on advancing treatments for renal diseases. With the closing of the deal, Regulus has become an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Novartis, and its shares have ceased trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market.

The acquisition brings into Novartis’ pipeline a promising investigational therapy for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), a condition that affects millions worldwide and is the most common genetic cause of kidney failure. The lead candidate, farabursen, is a next-generation oligonucleotide therapy that targets miR-17 and demonstrates preferential delivery to the kidneys. It aims to slow cyst growth, reduce kidney size, and delay disease progression.

“We are pleased to complete this transaction and take the next step in advancing a potential first-in-class medicine for ADPKD,” said Dr. Shreeram Aradhye, President of Development and Chief Medical Officer at Novartis. “We’re also excited to welcome Regulus’ talented team as we continue to expand our renal pipeline to address areas of high unmet need.”

In March 2025, Regulus reported positive results from a Phase 1b trial of farabursen, showing encouraging safety and efficacy data. The treatment demonstrated a consistent impact on key biomarkers, including urinary polycystin and height-adjusted total kidney volume (htTKV), which are critical indicators of disease progression in ADPKD.

The acquisition was executed through a previously announced tender offer in which Novartis offered $7.00 per share in cash, plus an additional $7.00 contingent value right (CVR) tied to a future regulatory milestone. The offer expired on June 24, 2025, and approximately 74.5% of outstanding shares were tendered. The transaction was completed through a short-form merger under Delaware law, with all remaining shares converted into the right to receive the same consideration offered in the tender.

With this acquisition, Novartis strengthens its position in the nephrology space and reinforces its commitment to addressing chronic kidney diseases with high unmet medical need.