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news.Johnson & Johnson has agreed to acquire privately held, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical firm Novira Therapeutics.
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Novira is focused on the discovery and development of therapies to treat chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection.
The company’s novel antiviral drug candidates have the potential to address the limitations of existing CHB therapies when used as mono-therapy or in combination with current standards of care.
Novira’s portfolio of novel antivirals is led by NVR 3-778, a small molecule, direct acting antiviral, for oral administration in patients with HBV.
NVR 3-778 inhibits the HBV core or capsid protein. It is being evaluated for oral administration in patients with Chronic Hepatitis B.
Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies global head for research & development William Hait said: "We are excited about the prospect this acquisition offers to accelerate the development of curative treatments for people affected by chronic hepatitis B.
"NVR 3-778 offers the potential for efficient suppression of virus production and replication, which could help address the remaining unmet medical needs."
Novira Therapeutics CEO Christian Schade said: "This acquisition will enhance the ability of Novira’s research and development teams to continue to advance novel therapeutic candidates for chronic HBV infection."
The transaction is anticipated to be completed later this year.