Roche to acquire Adheron Therapeutics for $580m

Adheron has developed a new technology that disrupts immune cell adhesion through Cadherin-11 (Cad-11), a cell surface protein, to develop potential treatments for various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

The company’s humanized monoclonal antibody that targets Cadherin-11, SDP051, has completed the initial phase of clinical development.

Results highlighted that the Cad-11 inhibitor is safe and well-tolerated at doses up to 10mg/kg per day with no evidence of significant side effects.

Adheron Therapeutics chief executive officer Hari Kumar said: "We are very excited about this acquisition, as it is an important step towards the development of breakthrough medicines in the area of inflammation and fibrosis.

"This deal brings together Adheron’s deep understanding of the underlying science of Cadherin-11 with Roche’s vast experience in researching and developing next generation medicines."

Subject to customary closing conditions, the transaction is expected to close soon.

Cad-11, which acts as an adhesive between cells, is a surface protein expressed on fibroblasts in the skin and lungs, and fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) in the joints.

It also serves as an important contributor to fibrotic pathology.

Adheron Therapeutics was funded by a group of venture investors comprising Health Care Ventures, MedImmune Ventures, Partners Innovation Fund, Amgen Ventures, and SROne.

Image: Roche Basel with the buildings 68 and 48. Photo: courtesy of F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd