Vertex And Ono Partner To Develop Povetacicept For Kidney Diseases In East Asia

Vertex Pharmaceuticals has entered into an exclusive licensing and development agreement with Ono Pharmaceutical to advance and commercialize its investigational drug povetacicept in Japan and South Korea. The biologic is a recombinant fusion protein designed to target both BAFF and APRIL cytokines, showing promise as a best-in-class treatment for B cell-driven kidney diseases such as IgA nephropathy (IgAN) and primary membranous nephropathy (pMN).

“Ono is a proven leader in Japan and South Korea, bringing established local relationships, infrastructure and nephrology expertise that make them a perfect partner for Vertex as we look to deliver povetacicept to the thousands of potential patients in these countries. We are very pleased to partner with Ono and look forward to close collaboration as we continue to advance this potentially best-in-class treatment for IgAN, pMN and other serious B-cell-mediated diseases,” said Reshma Kewalramani, M.D., Chief Executive Officer and President of Vertex. 

As part of the deal, Vertex will receive an upfront payment along with milestone-based payments tied to regulatory achievements and commercial success, in addition to tiered royalties on future sales. Ono will lead clinical development in both countries, handle regulatory submissions, and oversee commercialization efforts after any potential approval.

“Vertex has a strong track record of developing innovative therapies for serious diseases. Through this strategic partnership, we can strengthen our late-stage pipeline in the immunology field, which is a key focus area for Ono. We look forward to collaborating with Vertex to provide this new therapeutic option for patients with IgAN and other autoimmune diseases in Japan and South Korea, and to maximize the value of this treatment,” said Toichi Takino, Representative Director, President and Chief Operating Officer of Ono. 

The agreement currently covers povetacicept’s use in treating IgAN and pMN but may be expanded to include additional indications. Vertex aims to benefit from Ono’s deep development and regulatory expertise in East Asia, while both companies work together to address unmet needs in immune-mediated kidney conditions.