A key property included in the acquisition is farabursen, an investigational next-generation oligonucleotide targeting the microRNA miR-17 with preferential kidney exposure, intended to treat people with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.
In a press release, Novartis spotlighted Regulus’ investigational next-generation oligonucleotide, farabursen, which targets the microRNA miR-17 with preferential kidney exposure (1). In March 2025, Regulus successfully completed a Phase Ib, multiple-ascending dose clinical trial for farabursen that showed promising efficacy and safety in reducing the growth of cysts and kidney size, as well as delaying the progression of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD).
“We are pleased to complete this transaction and take the next step in advancing clinical development for a potential first-in-class medicine that can help treat patients suffering from ADPKD, the most common genetic cause of renal failure worldwide,” said
Regulus announced its pending acquisition by Novartis on April 30, 2025, disclosing that the deal was being made for $7 per share in cash with the potential to receive an additional $7 per share, also in cash, contingent on regulatory approval of farabursen (2). That arrangement, if realized in full, was calculated to bring the total equity value of the transaction to approximately $1.7 billion. Novartis said that more than 56 million shares were validly tendered, representing just under 75% of all issued and outstanding shares (1).
"We are excited to combine with Novartis to potentially bring farabursen to patients living with ADPKD, who currently have limited treatment options. Novartis' established global development and commercial capabilities will enable this important new medicine to reach patients if approved,"
The completion of the acquisition of Regulus, a company based in the United States, aligns with Novartis’ intention to expand its US manufacturing and R&D presence with the investment of $23 billion during the next five years,
Novartis’ announcement of its new investment within the US came a day after President Donald Trump levied, then placed a 90-day pause on, reciprocal taxes on countries the president had felt engaged in unfair trading practices, briefly sending a boomerang through US and worldwide stock markets (4). This action came roughly a week after the
1. Novartis.
2. Regulus Therapeutics.
3. Novartis.
4. Lavery, P.
