Suzhou – October 02, 2026 -- Novartis has agreed to pay Abogen Biosciences an upfront fee of USD 575 million to secure worldwide rights to ABO2203, an mRNA-encoded CD19xCD3 T-cell engager for autoimmune diseases, with total deal value reaching up to approximately USD 7.2 billion if all milestones and options are exercised.
Novartis secures exclusive worldwide license to Abogen's lead autoimmune asset ABO2203
The licensing and option agreement grants Novartis an exclusive global license to ABO2203, which Abogen describes as the first mRNA-encoded T-cell engager to enter clinical evaluation for autoimmune diseases. The molecule uses mRNA to direct endogenous production of T-cell engagers in vivo, targeting B-cell depletion through a mechanism the companies say differs from traditional recombinant T-cell engagers.
Deal structure includes options on additional RNA platform programs
Beyond ABO2203, Novartis holds exclusive options to license further next-generation therapeutic assets built on Abogen's proprietary RNA platform. Abogen is also eligible for royalties on future product sales tied to any licensed programs, pending achievement of development, regulatory and commercial milestones. The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including required regulatory clearances.
Executives frame deal as validation of RNA platform beyond vaccines
Abogen CEO Bo Ying said the agreement underscores the platform's potential to expand beyond prophylactic vaccines and accelerate ABO2203's development. Novartis Biomedical Research President Fiona Marshall said mRNA-encoded T-cell engagers could complement existing therapeutic modalities for achieving durable immune reset in autoimmune disease.