Global pharma giant Novartis has announced a deal to acquire Excellergy, a private biotech developing next-generation anti-IgE therapies for IgE-driven diseases. The acquisition brings Exl-111, a half-life extended, high-affinity anti-IgE antibody currently in Phase 1 trials, into Novartis’ allergy pipeline.

 

The move leverages Novartis’ deep expertise in IgE biology and long-standing presence in allergic disease treatments. Exl-111 is designed to extend the proven biology of anti-IgE therapy and could complement Novartis’ existing allergy portfolio across multiple conditions.

 

“Excellergy adds a differentiated next-generation anti-IgE program that builds on biology Novartis knows well, supported by preclinical evidence and early clinical pharmacokinetic data,” said Fiona Marshall, President of Biomedical Research at Novartis. 

 

“Exl-111 is designed to go beyond conventional anti-IgE therapy, with the potential to deliver faster and deeper suppression of IgE signaling as well as improved symptom control. This proposed acquisition strengthens our allergy portfolio and reflects our strategy of advancing innovative bold science to bring meaningful additional benefits to patients.”

 

IgE plays a central role in multiple allergic diseases. Unlike conventional anti-IgE therapies, Exl-111 is engineered to dissociate receptor-bound IgE, potentially driving faster and deeper Fc epsilon RI alpha (FcεRIα) downregulation. Preclinical studies and early Phase 1 data suggest a differentiated profile, with sustained exposure consistent with its half-life–extended design.

 

If clinical results confirm these findings, Exl-111 could offer earlier symptom relief, stronger disease control, more convenient dosing, and broader application across food allergy, chronic spontaneous urticaria, chronic inducible urticaria, allergic asthma, and other IgE-mediated conditions—including possibly in pediatric populations.