J&J to Enhance Portfolio with $1.25B Purchase of Bispecific Antibody for Skin Conditions

Johnson & Johnson has recently acquired an experimental skin disease medicine named NM26 for $1.25 billion, expanding its collection of dual-targeting antibody drugs. NM26, developed by Swiss biotech startup Numab Therapeutics and now under Yellow Jersey Therapeutics, is set for Phase 2 trials in atopic dermatitis. This move showcases J&J's commitment to advancing its pharmaceutical division with 20 new drugs by the end of the decade. The company aims to provide innovative solutions in the treatment of skin conditions like eczema. The bispecific monoclonal antibody, NM26, targets two proteins associated with inflammatory diseases, IL-4Ra and IL-31, offering unique advantages over current treatments such as Dupixent and Rinvoq. J&J's interest in bispecific antibodies is evident, with previous acquisitions like Ambrx Biopharma and Proteologix. The company looks to diversify its portfolio with differentiated and complementary bispecifics for various disease areas. Numab's NM26, designed to address itching and inflammation in skin conditions, could revolutionize the field with its potency and speed of action. This strategic investment underlines J&J's dedication to advancing immunology research for impactful outcomes, as highlighted by Candice Long, J&Js global vice president of immunology.