Novartis has completed its acquisition of Regulus Therapeutics, a San Diego, California-based clinical-stage bio/pharmaceutical company developing microRNA therapeutics, in a deal worth up to $1.7 billion ($800 million upfront and $900 million in milestone payments). The deal was announced in May 2025.  

Regulus’ lead asset, farabursen, is an oligonucleotide targeting miR-17 for treating autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), a genetic disorder characterized by the development of fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. Farabursen is an investigational microRNA inhibitor designed to target miR-17 with preferential kidney exposure, aiming to reduce the growth of cysts and kidney size, as well as delay progression of disease severity in ADPKD. In March 2025, Regulus announced the successful completion of a Phase Ib multiple-ascending dose clinical trial for farabursen.   

Holders of Regulus common stock received $7 per share in cash at closing and a contingent value right with a value of up to $7 per share payable in cash upon the achievement of a regulatory milestone. Novartis merged Regulus into and with an indirect wholly owned Novartis subsidiary, Redwood Merger Sub Inc., resulting in Regulus becoming an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Novartis.  

Source: Novartis