Incyte has finalized its acquisition of Escient Pharmaceuticals, a company specializing in the development of small molecule therapeutics for immune and neuro-immune disorders. The acquisition enhances Incyte’s Inflammation and Autoimmunity portfolio, reinforcing its dedication to addressing the pressing needs of patients with severe inflammatory conditions.
Hervé Hoppenot, CEO of Incyte, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, highlighting the potential of Escient’s oral MRGPR antagonists to offer innovative solutions. He emphasized the company’s commitment to advancing the clinical development of these promising therapies.
Incyte’s portfolio now includes EP262 and EP547, representing groundbreaking advancements. EP262, a first-in-class MRGPRX2 antagonist, shows promise in treating various mast cell-mediated diseases such as chronic urticaria and atopic dermatitis. Meanwhile, EP547, another first-in-class oral MRGPRX4 antagonist, holds potential in addressing conditions like cholestatic pruritus.
Joshua Grass, CEO of Escient Pharmaceuticals, commended the six-year effort in pioneering MRGPR biology and advancing EP262 and EP547 into clinical development. He expressed excitement about transitioning to Incyte, recognizing its global presence and capability to advance these therapies to meet patients’ unmet needs worldwide.
The acquisition terms involve Incyte acquiring Escient and its assets for $750 million plus Escient’s net cash, subject to customary adjustments.
EP262 is a potent once-daily small molecule antagonist targeting MRGPRX2, a receptor on mast cells involved in various inflammatory reactions. Preclinical data suggests its potential in treating mast cell-mediated conditions, initially focusing on chronic urticarias and atopic dermatitis.
EP547, on the other hand, is a selective antagonist targeting MRGPRX4, offering a targeted approach to treating cholestatic and uremic pruritus.
Incyte, a global biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Delaware, is dedicated to addressing unmet medical needs through innovative therapies in Oncology and Inflammation & Autoimmunity.
Escient Pharmaceuticals, based in San Diego, California, focuses on developing therapeutics for neurosensory-inflammatory disorders, with a pipeline including MRGPRX2 and MRGPRX4 antagonists.
Forward-looking statements in this announcement outline the potential of this transaction and the therapies involved, acknowledging associated risks and uncertainties. These include delays in research and development, unsuccessful clinical trials, regulatory hurdles, market competition, and other factors outlined in regulatory filings.
Incyte disclaims any obligation to update forward-looking statements, emphasizing their commitment to transparency and compliance with regulatory standards.
