Biotech Values

[DewDiligence]

Re: NVS-Enanta HCV deal

Based on the paper you cited, it could be that DEB025 will be more effective when combined with an NS5A inhibitor than when combined with another kind of DAA. However, I don’t think the utility of DEB025 in an HCV cocktail will necessarily be restricted to combinations including an NS5A.

is it likely that NVS’ interest in Enanta is a combination drug with Deb025?

Yes, it’s 100% certain that NVS will want to test this combination. DEB025 is the only other HCV drug NVS has.

Would it be unusual for a combination drug to seek to disrupt what seems like a pretty focused target (NS5A)?

Based on the paper you cited, DEB025 should allow an NS5A inhibitor to inhibit NS5A even more effectively, so there is nothing unusual in this regard, as far as I can tell.