Exicure, Inc. signed a Memorandum of Understanding with GPCR Therapeutics to acquire GPCR USA, a subsidiary specializing in G Protein-Coupled Receptor (GPCR) drug development. This acquisition includes the transfer of technology and collaborative research on GPCR Therapeutics’ ongoing drug pipelines, most notably a CXCR4 inhibitor currently in Phase 2 clinical trials for multiple myeloma, a market estimated at $1-2 billion annually. Exicure also gains access to GPCR Therapeutics’ research in immuno-oncology, fibrosis, and obesity treatments.
This acquisition is a pivotal moment for Exicure, marking a strategic shift from an early-stage nucleic acid therapy company to a clinical-stage biotech entity. The acquisition of a late-stage clinical asset, combined with experienced research personnel like Dr. Pina Cardarelli, formerly of Bristol-Myers Squibb, positions Exicure for rapid growth and potential market entry. The focus on GPCRs, representing a significant portion of drug targets, allows Exicure to enter a diverse therapeutic landscape. This diversification offers a significant upside compared to its previous focus on nucleic acid therapies.
Exicure gains access to a Phase 2 CXCR4 inhibitor, a promising drug candidate targeting multiple myeloma. The company also benefits from GPCR Therapeutics’ intellectual property portfolio, including patents related to CXCR4 and other GPCRs. Financially, Exicure has secured $14 million in capital investment to support this acquisition, clinical trials, and ongoing operations. This infusion of capital underscores investor confidence in Exicure’s new strategic direction and the potential of the acquired assets.
This strategic move signifies a significant transformation for Exicure. The acquisition provides immediate entry into a late-stage clinical trial, broadens the company’s therapeutic portfolio, and offers the potential for substantial revenue generation. The combination of a promising drug candidate, experienced research personnel, and secured funding positions Exicure for growth and development as a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on GPCR-targeted therapies. While the previous focus on nucleic acid therapies presented its own challenges and opportunities, this shift offers a more immediate and potentially lucrative pathway to market. The success of the ongoing Phase 2 trials and future collaborations will be crucial for establishing Exicure’s position in the competitive biotech landscape.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
