Sentynl Therapeutics acquires Eiger BioPharmaceuticals’ Zokinvy program to expand portfolio in rare diseases
Sentynl Therapeutics, Inc., a U.S.-based biopharmaceutical company wholly owned by Zydus Lifesciences, Ltd. (Zydus Group), has closed the acquisition of Eiger BioPharmaceuticals, Inc.’s Zokinvy (lonafarnib) program. Zokinvy is the only FDA-approved treatment for progeria, specifically Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) and processing-deficient progeroid laminopathies (PDPL), affecting children from 12 months and older. Financial terms of the acquisition remain undisclosed.
Expanding Global Impact for Rare Diseases
The acquisition signifies a critical step for Sentynl in its goal of expanding access to innovative treatments for rare diseases. Following Zokinvy’s 2020 FDA approval, it has also gained approval in the European Union, Great Britain, and Japan. Dr. Sharvil Patel, Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences, highlighted, “This acquisition marks an important milestone in growing our portfolio of medicines for rare and orphan diseases.”
Strengthening Support for Progeria Patients
As a result of this acquisition, Sentynl aims to provide worldwide access to Zokinvy while ensuring continued support for patients affected by progeria. Matt Heck, President and CEO of Sentynl, expressed the company’s commitment, stating, “We are firmly committed to providing best-in-class global access to Zokinvy and are eager to serve the patients and their families affected by progeria.”
Sentynl Therapeutics acquires Eiger BioPharmaceuticals’ Zokinvy program, the only FDA-approved treatment for progeria. Read more about this milestone.
A United Effort for Patient Advocacy
Eiger BioPharmaceuticals and The Progeria Research Foundation (PRF) remain crucial partners in supporting progeria patients. David Apelian, CEO of Eiger, acknowledged the collaboration, saying, “We are pleased to complete this agreement with Sentynl, given our shared commitment to supporting patients of life-threatening, rare conditions with high unmet medical needs.”
Audrey Gordon, President and Executive Director of PRF, praised Zokinvy’s impact, explaining, “Zokinvy gives these beautiful children longer, healthier lives. We are excited to now join forces with Sentynl.”
This acquisition demonstrates Sentynl’s dedication to expanding its footprint in rare disease treatments. By prioritizing global access to Zokinvy, they offer renewed hope for patients and families living with progeria. The collaboration between Sentynl, Eiger, and PRF embodies a united effort to ensure life-changing therapies reach those in need.