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Unnatural Products, Novartis sign licensing agreement for cardiovascular program

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on February 18, 2026

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· Last updated: April 3, 2026

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Unnatural Products, Novartis sign licensing agreement for cardiovascular program
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Feb 18 (Reuters) - Unnatural Products said on Wednesday it has signed a licensing agreement with Novartis to develop macrocyclic peptide-based therapies for a cardiovascular program. The California-

Unnatural Products and Novartis Forge Licensing Deal for Heart Therapies

Overview of the Licensing Agreement

Feb 18 (Reuters) - Unnatural Products said on Wednesday it has signed a licensing agreement with Novartis to develop macrocyclic peptide-based therapies for a cardiovascular program.

The California-based biotech company will receive up to $100 million in upfront payment and as much as $1.7 billion in development, regulatory, and commercial milestones. It will also be eligible for tiered royalties mid-single up to low double-digits on annual net sales.

The Swiss drugmaker will take the lead to oversee clinical development, manufacturing and global commercialization of any resulting drugs.

Details of the Financial Agreement

The company did not disclose the exact nature of the program.

Understanding Macrocyclic Peptides

Macrocyclic peptides are a class of therapeutic molecules shaped into a ring-like structure, which gives them advantages over traditional small-molecule drugs and larger biologics.

(Reporting by Siddhi Mahatole in Bengaluru; Editing by Mrigank Dhaniwala)

Key Takeaways

  • Unnatural Products and Novartis sign a licensing agreement.
  • The deal focuses on macrocyclic peptide-based cardiovascular therapies.
  • Potential earnings for Unnatural Products could reach $1.7 billion.
  • Novartis will lead clinical development and commercialization.
  • The agreement includes tiered royalties on net sales.

References

Frequently Asked Questions

What are macrocyclic peptides?
Macrocyclic peptides are therapeutic molecules characterized by a ring-like structure, offering advantages over traditional small-molecule drugs and larger biologics in drug development.
What are royalties?
Royalties are payments made to the owner of a right, such as intellectual property, for the ongoing use of that right, often calculated as a percentage of sales.
What are development milestones?
Development milestones are specific goals or achievements in a project that trigger payments or other benefits as outlined in a contract.
What is a financial milestone?
A financial milestone is a specific point in a financial plan or agreement that signifies a significant achievement, often tied to funding or revenue targets.

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