"We are very pleased with the Secarna collaboration under the target validation agreement. Together we have built a strong patent portfolio and moreover, we have generated a powerful in vivo and in vitro data package. Secarna's impressive LNAplusTM platform has given us fully optimized clinical candidates that we are looking forward to bringing into IND-enabling studies." says CEO and cofounder Stefan K. Nilsson. "The acquisition is in line with Lipigon's business model to fully control our pipeline until out-licensing or market introduction. We believe that this agreement will make our case more attractive for investors".

Inhibiting the ANGPTL gene family members ANGPTL3 and ANGPTL4 will positively affect plasma lipid levels. Drugs targeting these gene products could be used for treating orphan indications such as Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome or Homozygote Familial Hypercholesterolemia, but also more common diseases such as cardiovascular, metabolic liver and kidney diseases. Antisense therapeutics have recently proven to be very attractive. Several big pharma companies showed major licensing and acquisition agreements in 2019.

"Lipigon has been a great partner throughout our highly productive collaboration. We are excited that Lipigon will advance the LNAplus™ assets and look forward to further data read-outs.", said Jonas Renz, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Secarna.

Umeå March 23rd 2020