AbbVie has acquired Syndesi Therapeutics SA, expanding AbbVie’s neuroscience portfolio. Syndesi’s portfolio of novel modulators of the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A), include its lead molecule SDI-118. The mechanism is currently being evaluated for the potential treatment of cognitive impairment and other symptoms associated with a range of neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease and major depressive disorder.  

 

AbbVie will pay Syndesi shareholders a $130 million upfront with the potential for Syndesi shareholders to receive additional contingent payments of up to $870 million based on certain predetermined milestones.

 

SDI-118 is a small molecule currently in Phase 1b studies being evaluated to target nerve terminals to enhance synaptic efficiency. Synaptic dysfunction is believed to underlie the cognitive impairment seen in multiple neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.

 

“There is a major unmet need for new therapies that can help improve cognitive function in patients suffering from difficult-to-treat neurologic diseases,” said Tom Hudson, M.D., senior vice president, R&D, chief scientific officer, AbbVie. “With AbbVie’s acquisition of Syndesi, we aim to advance the research of a novel, first-in-class asset for the potential treatment of cognitive impairment associated with neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.”
 

“We have been impressed with the vision of AbbVie’s neuroscience R&D team, who share our view on the therapeutic potential of SDI-118 in a range of neurologic diseases,” said Jonathan Savidge, chief executive officer, Syndesi Therapeutics. “I am delighted with the closing of this deal. It has been a pleasure to partner with our investors to investigate the potential of SDI-118 in early clinical studies. Now, as part of AbbVie, the program is well positioned to move into later stages of clinical development.”