Povetacicept

- Exclusive collaboration and license agreement for povetacicept in these countries - - Ono will leverage its deep expertise in clinical development and commercialization for chronic kidney disease in Japan and South Korea to accelerate advancement of povetacicept for patients with IgA nephropathy and primary membranous nephropathy - BOSTON & OSAKA, Japan --(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jun. 23, 2025-- Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (Nasdaq: VRTX) and Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (OTCMKTS: OPHLY) today announced an exclusive collaboration and license agreement for the development and commercialization of Vertex’s povetacicept in Japan and South Korea . Povetacicept is a recombinant fusion protein therapeutic and dual antagonist of the BAFF (B cell activating factor) and APRIL (a proliferation inducing ligand) cytokines with best-in-class potential being studied for the treatment of immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN), primary membranous nephropathy (pMN) and other B cell-mediated diseases. Under the terms of the agreement, Vertex will receive an upfront payment, as well as certain regulatory and commercial milestone payments and tiered royalties. Ono will utilize its extensive development expertise to help advance Vertex’s clinical trials for povetacicept and will be responsible for obtaining marketing authorizations in Japan and South Korea . Following approval, Ono will be solely responsible for commercializing povetacicept in these regions. The agreement includes povetacicept for both IgAN and pMN, with the potential to add other indications. “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,” said Reshma Kewalramani , M.D., Chief Executive Officer and President of Vertex . “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.” “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,” said Toichi Takino , Representative Director, President and Chief Operating Officer of 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.” About Povetacicept Povetacicept is a recombinant fusion protein therapeutic and a dual antagonist of the BAFF (B cell activating factor) and APRIL (a proliferation inducing ligand) cytokines, which play key roles in pathogenesis of multiple autoimmune diseases via their roles in the activation, differentiation and/or survival of B cells, T cells and innate immune cells. Based upon an engineered TACI (transmembrane activator and calcium modulator ligand interactor) domain, povetacicept has higher binding affinity and greater potency in preclinical studies versus other inhibitors of BAFF and/or APRIL alone and has demonstrated potential best-in-class efficacy in a clinical trial in patients with IgA nephropathy and primary membranous nephropathy. Povetacicept is also in development for multiple serious B cell-mediated diseases including other autoimmune kidney diseases and autoimmune cytopenias. About IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) IgAN is a serious, progressive, life-threatening, B cell-mediated chronic kidney disease that is the most common cause of primary (idiopathic) glomerulonephritis, affecting approximately 300,000 people in the United States and Europe . It is estimated that there are approximately 33,000 diagnosed patients in Japan . IgAN results from deposition of circulating immune complexes consisting of immunoglobulins and galactose-deficient immunoglobulin A (Gd-IgA1) in the renal glomerular mesangium, triggering kidney injury and fibrosis. Up to 72% of adult IgAN patients progress to end-stage renal disease within 20 years. There are no approved therapies that specifically target the underlying cause of IgAN. About Primary Membranous Nephropathy (pMN) Primary membranous nephropathy is a serious, progressive, life-threatening B cell-mediated chronic kidney disease affecting people worldwide, with approximately 150,000 people diagnosed in the U.S. and Europe . It is estimated that there are approximately 6,000 diagnosed patients with pMN in Japan . pMN is a rare glomerular disease that occurs when the body generates an abnormal immune response, including autoantibodies, against proteins that are part of the kidney. Autoantibodies trigger damage and inflammation, especially within the glomeruli (the parts of the kidney that filter blood), impairing the kidneys’ ability to properly filter waste and fluid, eventually causing progressive loss of kidney function. There are no approved therapies that specifically target the underlying cause of pMN. About RAINIER RAINIER is a global Phase 3 pivotal trial of povetacicept 80 mg vs. placebo on top of standard of care in approximately 480 people with IgAN. The study is designed to have a pre-planned interim analysis evaluating urine protein to creatinine ratio (UPCR) for the povetacicept arm versus placebo after a certain number of patients reach 36 weeks of treatment. If positive, the interim analysis may serve as the basis for Vertex to seek accelerated approval in the U.S. Final analysis will occur at two years of treatment, with a primary endpoint of total eGFR slope through Week 104. The Phase 3 clinical trial is underway in multiple regions, including the U.S. , EU and Asia . Specifically, Japanese and South Korean regulatory authorities have approved the Clinical Trial Application (CTA) for RAINIER, where the Phase 3 trial is underway. About RUBY-3 RUBY-3 is an ongoing, multiple ascending dose, multi-cohort, open label, Phase 1/2 basket study of povetacicept in autoimmune glomerulonephritis, including IgAN, primary membranous nephropathy, lupus nephritis and ANCA-associated vasculitis with glomerulonephritis where povetacicept is being administered subcutaneously for up to 104 weeks. About Vertex Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases and conditions. The company has approved therapies for cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia and acute pain, and it continues to advance clinical and research programs in these areas. Vertex also has a robust clinical pipeline of investigational therapies across a range of modalities in other serious diseases where it has deep insight into causal human biology, including neuropathic pain, APOL1-mediated kidney disease, IgA nephropathy, primary membranous nephropathy, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, type 1 diabetes and myotonic dystrophy type 1. Vertex was founded in 1989 and has its global headquarters in Boston , with international headquarters in London . Additionally, the company has research and development sites and commercial offices in North America , Europe , Australia , Latin America and the Middle East . Vertex is consistently recognized as one of the industry's top places to work, including 15 consecutive years on Science magazine's Top Employers list and one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For. For company updates and to learn more about Vertex’s history of innovation, visit www.vrtx.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X. About Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. delivers innovative therapies for patients worldwide. Upholding its philosophy of “Dedicated to the Fight against Disease and Pain,” Ono targets areas with unmet medical needs including oncology, immunology, and neurology, and fosters partnerships with academic and biotech organizations to accelerate drug discovery. Through its affiliate, Deciphera Pharmaceuticals , Ono is accelerating clinical development and commercial operations in the US and Europe to drive global business expansion and further its commitment to patient care. For more information, please visit the company's website at https://www.ono-pharma.com/en. Vertex Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, including, without limitation, statements by Reshma Kewalramani M.D ., and Toichi Takino , in this press release, and statements about the terms of and expectations for Vertex’s collaboration with Ono, statements about potential benefits and results that may be achieved through the collaboration, statements regarding the future activities of the parties pursuant to the collaboration, including Ono’s help to advance clinical trials and Ono’s responsibility to obtain marketing authorizations in Japan and South Korea and to commercialize povetacicept in the regions, statements regarding upfront and milestone payments, and potential royalties on future products, and statements about Vertex’s plans and expectations for the RAINIER and RUBY-3 clinical trials and potential plans to seek accelerated approval in the U.S. based on interim analysis from the RAINIER trial. While Vertex believes the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are accurate, these forward-looking statements represent the company’s beliefs only as of the date of this press release and there are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Those risks and uncertainties include, among other things, that the anticipated benefits and potential of the collaboration between Vertex and Ono may not be achieved on the anticipated timeline, or at all, that data may not support further development of the therapies subject to the collaboration due to safety, efficacy, or other reasons, and other risks listed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Vertex 's annual report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and available through Vertex’s website at www.vrtx.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Vertex disclaims any obligation to update the information contained in this press release as new information becomes available. (VRTX-GEN) Ono Forward-Looking Statements In this press release, statements made with respect to current plans, estimates, strategies and beliefs, and other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements about the future performance of the company. These statements are based on current assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: (i) changes in the business environment in the pharmaceutical market and amendments to relevant laws and regulations, (ii) disruptions to product supply due to stagnation or delays in production caused by natural disasters, fires, etc., (iii) the possibility that sales activities for new and existing products may not achieve the expected results, (iv) the emergence of new side effects in post-marketing drugs, and (v) infringements of intellectual property rights by third parties. Information about pharmaceutical products included in this press release is not intended to constitute an advertisement or medical advice. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250623239210/en/ Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated Investors: InvestorInfo@vrtx.com Media: mediainfo@vrtx.com or International: +44 20 3204 5275 or U.S. : 617-341-6992 or Heather Nichols : +1 617-839-3607 Ono Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Corporate Communications public_relations@ono-pharma.com Source: Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated

FILSPARI holds strong market potential as the first FDA-approved non-immunosuppressive therapy for IgA nephropathy, a rare kidney disease with significant unmet needs. As more patients and providers seek disease-modifying options, FILSPARI is well-positioned to capture substantial market share, especially with favorable long-term data. LAS VEGAS, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DelveInsight's " FILSPARI Market Size, Forecast, and Market Insight Report" highlights the details around FILSPARI, the first and only oral, once-daily, non-immunosuppressive therapy approved in both the US and Europe for IgAN. The report provides product descriptions, patent details, and competitor products (marketed and emerging therapies) of FILSPARI. The report also highlights the historical and forecasted sales from 2020 to 2034 segmented into 7MM [the United States, the EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan]. Travere Therapeutics' FILSPARI (sparsentan) Overview FILSPARI (sparsentan) is a once-daily oral treatment that uniquely targets two key pathways, endothelin-1 and angiotensin II (also known as DEARA), in the progression of IgA nephropathy. It is the first approved non-immunosuppressive therapy for this condition. Endothelin-1 and angiotensin II contribute to kidney function decline by promoting inflammation and fibrosis, altering podocyte structure, causing podocyte loss, and increasing the permeability of the glomerular filtration barrier. Additionally, both are vasoconstrictors that narrow blood vessels and raise pressure in the glomeruli. The drug received accelerated approval based on its ability to reduce proteinuria. Due to potential safety concerns, it is distributed under the FILSPARI Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program. In Europe, it is marketed by CSL Vifor, and in Japan by Renalys Pharma. Results from the registration-enabling study are expected in the second half of 2025. Learn more about FILSPARI projected market size for IgAN @ FILSPARI IgA Nephropathy IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is an autoimmune disorder that disrupts kidney function by damaging the small blood vessels responsible for filtration. This damage is caused by an abnormal protein that harms the glomeruli, the kidneys' main filtering units. According to DelveInsight, there were approximately 415,000 diagnosed prevalent cases of IgAN across the seven major markets in 2024, and this number is projected to grow at a CAGR of 0.6% through 2034. Current standard care involves the use of ACE inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), primarily to manage associated symptoms like hypertension. Currently, only a few drugs have been approved for IgAN treatment, including VANRAFIA (Atrasentan) and FABHALTA (Iptacopan) by Novartis, FILSPARI (Sparsentan) by Travere Therapeutics, and TARPEYO/KINPEYGO (budesonide) by Asahi Kasei (Calliditas Therapeutics), among others. The treatment landscape is expected to undergo major changes between 2024 and 2034, driven by the introduction of innovative therapies. DelveInsight estimates the IgAN market across the seven key regions was valued at around USD 730 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a strong CAGR of 30.5% from 2025 to 2034. With targeted treatment options for IgAN only recently emerging and a pressing need for therapies that can delay progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), significant advancements in this area are likely to profoundly reshape the market in the coming years. Discover more about the IgAN market in detail @ IgA Nephropathy Market Assessment Emerging Competitors of FILSPARI Key companies advancing therapies for IgA nephropathy include Novartis (Zigakibart/FUB523), F. Hoffmann-La Roche and Ionis Pharmaceuticals (Sefaxersen/RG6299/IONIS-FB-LRx), AstraZeneca's Alexion Pharmaceuticals (ULTOMIRIS), Vera Therapeutics (Atacicept), Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Povetacicept), Otsuka Pharmaceutical (Sibeprenlimab), Biogen (Felzartamab), Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals (ARO-C3), NovelMed (NM8074), Q32 Bio (ADX-097), Walden Biosciences (WAL0921), and Takeda Pharmaceutical (TAK-079), among others. In April 2025, Vera Therapeutics announced it had completed patient enrollment for its pivotal Phase III ORIGIN trial assessing atacicept in IgA nephropathy. The previous month, Otsuka Pharmaceutical submitted a Biologics License Application (BLA) to the FDA for sibeprenlimab, a monoclonal antibody aimed at inhibiting APRIL (A PRoliferation-Inducing Ligand) in adults with IgAN. Additionally, in July 2022, the European Commission granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) to BION-1301 for primary IgAN, offering regulatory benefits to support its European development. Strengthening its renal pipeline, Novartis acquired Chinook Therapeutics in August 2023 for up to $3.5 billion, adding zigakibart and other late-stage kidney-focused assets to its portfolio. To know how does FILSPARI compare to other treatments for IgA nephropathy, visit @ FILSPARI Approval Date Key Milestones of FILSPARI In November 2024, FILSPARI was approved by the MHRA for primary IgAN treatment, and sparsentan received approval in Germany for the same indication. In September 2024, the FDA granted full approval for FILSPARI to slow kidney function decline in IgAN patients, based on positive long-term results from the PROTECT Study. In April 2024, CSL Vifor and Travere Therapeutics received Conditional Marketing Authorization (CMA) from the European Commission for FILSPARI in the EU, targeting adults with IgAN and significant proteinuria. In February 2023, the US FDA granted accelerated approval to FILSPARI (sparsentan) to reduce proteinuria in adults with primary IgAN at risk of rapid progression, with priority review. Discover how FILSPARI is shaping the IgAN treatment landscape @ FILSPARI IgAN FILSPARI Market Dynamics FILSPARI, developed by Travere Therapeutics, represents a significant advancement in the treatment of IgA Nephropathy, a rare and chronic autoimmune kidney disease. Approved under the FDA's accelerated approval program in early 2023, FILSPARI is the first non-immunosuppressive therapy specifically targeting proteinuria in IgAN. It is a dual endothelin angiotensin receptor antagonist (DEARA), a novel mechanism that distinguishes it from conventional RAAS inhibitors. Its market entry has been notable for both its scientific innovation and potential to reshape the standard of care for IgAN, particularly in patients at high risk of progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). The market dynamics are influenced by multiple factors, including the unmet need in IgAN, the orphan drug designation, and the limited competition in the space. Prior to FILSPARI's launch, treatment was largely supportive, focusing on blood pressure control and proteinuria reduction via ACE inhibitors or ARBs. FILSPARI's ability to deliver greater proteinuria reduction without the side effects associated with corticosteroids or immunosuppressants provides a compelling clinical and commercial value proposition. Competition is evolving, with several companies advancing novel IgAN therapeutics. Calliditas Therapeutics' TARPEYO (budesonide) was approved ahead of FILSPARI for a similar indication, but works through a corticosteroid pathway. Other players are also advancing programs, suggesting the market could become more segmented based on patient profile and mechanism of action. FILSPARI's differentiated profile, especially its dual-acting mechanism and oral administration, positions it favorably among nephrologists and specialists, but maintaining this edge will require strong real-world evidence and ongoing clinical data. From a market access and adoption standpoint, Travere has made early efforts in physician education, patient support programs, and collaboration with nephrology groups to accelerate uptake. However, broader adoption will depend on securing favorable formulary placements, long-term safety data, and sustained efficacy in delaying disease progression. As I gAN awareness grows and diagnosis rates improve through genetic and biomarker testing, the addressable patient population may expand, offering a significant growth opportunity for FILSPARI over the next 5–10 years. Dive deeper to get more insight into FILSPARI's strengths & weaknesses relative to competitors @ FILSPARI MoA Table of Contents Related Reports IgA Nephropathy Market IgA Nephropathy Market Insight, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast – 2034 report delivers an in-depth understanding of market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key IgAN companies such as Calliditas Therapeutics AB, Travere Therapeutics, Inc., Omeros, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Chinook Therapeutics, Inc., Vera Therapeutics, Inc., among others. IgA Nephropathy Pipeline IgA Nephropathy Pipeline Insight – 2025 report provides comprehensive insights about the pipeline landscape, pipeline drug profiles, including clinical and non-clinical stage products, and the key IgA nephropathy companies, including Chinook Therapeutics, Inc., RemeGen Co., Ltd., Novartis, Jiangsu HengRui Medicine Co., Ltd., Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Vera Therapeutics, Inc., Eledon Pharmaceuticals, Guangdong Hengrui Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Omeros Corporation, Otsuka Pharmaceutical, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, MorphoSys AG, Rohto Pharmaceutical, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Takeda, Travere Therapeutics, BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Transcenta Holding, Shanghai Alebund Pharmaceuticals, DiaMedica Therapeutics, SELECTA BIOSCIENCES, Kira Pharmaceuticals, Alpine Immune Sciences, among others. Chronic Kidney Disease Market Chronic Kidney Disease Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast – 2034 report deliver an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key chronic kidney disease companies, including ProKidney, Reata Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Novo Nordisk A/S, Boehringer Ingelheim, Eli Lilly and Company, KBP Biosciences, Kibow Pharma, Cincor Pharma, AstraZeneca, Allena Pharmaceuticals, DiaMedica Therapeutics Inc, Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, Sanofi , among others. Chronic Kidney Disease Pipeline Chronic Kidney Disease Pipeline Insight – 2025 report provides comprehensive insights about the pipeline landscape, including clinical and non-clinical stage products and the key chronic kidney disease companies, including KBP Biosciences, Eli Lilly and Company, Novo Nordisk, Prokidney, Boryung Pharmaceutical, among others. About DelveInsight DelveInsight is a leading Business Consultant and Market Research firm focused exclusively on life sciences. It supports pharma companies by providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions to improve their performance. Get hassle-free access to all the healthcare and pharma market research reports through our subscription-based platform PharmDelve . Contact Us Shruti Thakur [email protected] +14699457679 Logo: SOURCE DelveInsight Business Research, LLP WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED