The Japanese pharmaceutical company said IntraBio's expertise will strengthen its rare disease pipeline.

Through this transaction, Shionogi will obtain worldwide rights to Aqneursa.

The Japanese drugmaker said on Monday that IntraBio's expertise will comprehensively enhance Shionogi's capabilities in its rare disease research and development pipeline.

With this deal, Shionogi will acquire all global rights to Aqneursa, including intellectual property and commercialization rights.

The drug has been approved in the United States and the European Union for the treatment of neurological symptoms caused by Niemann-Pick disease type C.

Shionogi will acquire IntraBio equity from existing shareholders, including individuals, trusts, and corporate entities.

Shionogi said the acquisition is expected to close between November and December.

Background explanation

Niemann-Pick disease type C is a rare genetic disorder, and Aqneursa is a marketed drug targeting the neurological symptoms of the disease.

Through the acquisition, Shionogi will directly gain a mature marketed product as well as the other company's accumulated expertise in rare diseases, quickly filling out its own rare disease business segment.

The transaction does not involve the issuance of new shares; all shares will be acquired from existing shareholders.