Novartis Plans $1.4B Acquisition of US Biotech Tourmaline Bio

Novartis announced its agreement to acquire the U.S.-based biopharmaceutical company Tourmaline Bio for approximately $1.4 billion, paying $48 per share in cash. The acquisition centers on pacibekitug, an experimental monoclonal antibody targeting IL-6 to reduce systemic inflammation linked to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Phase 2 trial results demonstrated that pacibekitug significantly lowers high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels, a marker of inflammation, with an adverse event profile comparable to placebo, highlighting its potential as a breakthrough cardiovascular therapy. This acquisition complements Novartis' cardiovascular pipeline and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025. Novartis emphasized pacibekitug’s potential to address residual inflammatory risk with convenient dosing, filling a critical unmet need in cardiovascular care. Both companies' boards have approved the transaction, with Tourmaline becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Novartis upon completion.