Pharma BD Deal Intelligence
Novo Nordisk obtained an exclusive worldwide license (all indications) to LX9851, a first-in-class oral ACSL5 inhibitor for obesity and associated cardiometabolic disorders. Lexicon received $45M upfront (paid April 2025, making the license effective) plus $30M in near-term milestones, and is eligible for up to $485M in regulatory/commercial-launch milestones and up to $475M in sales milestones (~$1B total) plus tiered single-digit to low-double-digit royalties. Novo Nordisk initiated a Phase 1 study on March 23, 2026 (single and multiple ascending doses vs placebo in 96 people with overweight or obesity; completion expected Q1 2027), triggering a $10M milestone to Lexicon, with a further $10M achievable later in 2026.