Novartis Bets $12B on RNA Therapy Pioneer Avidity, Eyes Muscular Dystrophy Breakthroughs

Basel, Switzerland & San Diego, CA – November 10, 2025 – In a landmark deal signaling a major push into RNA therapeutics, Novartis has announced the acquisition of Avidity Biosciences for approximately $12 billion. The acquisition is poised to reshape the landscape of genetic medicine, particularly in the fight against debilitating muscular dystrophies, with Novartis betting big on Avidity’s innovative approach to targeted RNA delivery.

Avidity, known for its pioneering Antibody-Oligonucleotide Conjugate (AOC) technology, has developed a unique platform for delivering gene-correcting therapies directly to affected tissues. This technology is central to the company’s lead program, del-zota (delpacibart zotadirsen), a potentially breakthrough therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The deal includes a planned separation of Avidity’s early-stage precision cardiology programs into a new, publicly traded company, dubbed 'SpinCo,' allowing each focus area to pursue independent growth.

A Bold Bet on RNA Therapeutics

The acquisition underscores a growing trend within the pharmaceutical industry: a significant increase in investment in RNA-based therapies. “We are seeing a confluence of scientific breakthroughs and technological advancements that are making RNA therapeutics increasingly viable,” stated one industry analyst, speaking anonymously. “Novartis’ move reflects a broader recognition that RNA has the potential to address a wide range of diseases, from rare genetic disorders to common chronic conditions.”

Novartis has been strategically refining its research and development efforts, focusing on high-value medicines and innovative platforms. The acquisition of Avidity aligns perfectly with this strategy, providing Novartis with a robust pipeline of RNA-based therapies and a powerful delivery platform. “This isn’t just about acquiring a pipeline; it’s about acquiring a capability,” a source within Novartis commented. “Avidity’s AOC technology is truly transformative, and we believe it has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of genetic diseases.”

Del-Zota: A Potential Game-Changer for DMD

At the heart of the deal is del-zota, which has received Breakthrough Therapy Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for DMD patients with amenable exon 44 skipping mutations. The drug has demonstrated promising results in clinical trials, showing statistically significant increases in dystrophin production – a crucial protein missing in DMD patients.

“Existing therapies for DMD have limited efficacy and often come with significant side effects,” explains a leading DMD researcher, speaking anonymously. “Del-zota’s targeted delivery approach has the potential to overcome these limitations and provide a more effective and safer treatment option.”

The FDA is expected to review del-zota’s Biologics License Application (BLA) in early 2026, with a decision anticipated later that year. The acquisition significantly increases the likelihood of a swift approval.

SpinCo: Unlocking Value in Cardiology

While the focus of the acquisition is on neuromuscular diseases, Novartis isn’t abandoning Avidity’s efforts in cardiovascular medicine. The planned spin-off of 'SpinCo' will allow the company to focus on developing innovative RNA-based therapies for a range of heart conditions.

“Separating the cardio programs will allow each entity to pursue its own strategic priorities and attract dedicated investment,” explains a source familiar with the spin-off plans. “There’s significant potential in the cardiology space, and SpinCo will be well-positioned to capitalize on it.”

While the exact programs included in SpinCo haven't been fully disclosed, the company is expected to advance several preclinical and early-stage clinical assets, potentially targeting heart failure, arrhythmias, and other cardiovascular diseases.

Competition Heats Up in the RNA Space

The acquisition of Avidity is expected to intensify competition in the rapidly growing RNA therapeutics market. Companies like Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Sarepta Therapeutics, and Alnylam Pharmaceuticals are all actively developing RNA-based therapies for a range of diseases.

“We’re entering a new era of genetic medicine, and competition is only going to increase,” notes one industry analyst. “Companies that can develop innovative delivery platforms and demonstrate clinical efficacy will be the winners.”

Novartis is hoping that Avidity’s AOC technology will give it a competitive edge. The platform’s ability to deliver therapeutic oligonucleotides directly to affected tissues could significantly improve efficacy and reduce side effects. The company is also planning to leverage its own expertise in drug development and manufacturing to accelerate the commercialization of Avidity’s pipeline.

The Future of Genetic Medicine

The acquisition of Avidity is more than just a financial transaction; it’s a statement about the future of genetic medicine. RNA therapeutics are poised to revolutionize the treatment of a wide range of diseases, and Novartis is determined to be at the forefront of this revolution.

“We believe that RNA has the potential to address some of the most challenging diseases facing humanity,” said Vas Narasimhan, CEO of Novartis, in a statement. “The acquisition of Avidity is a significant step towards realizing that vision.”

The deal is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Investors and patients alike will be watching closely to see what the future holds for Novartis and Avidity, as they embark on a new chapter in the fight against genetic diseases.