In order to bolster its late-stage cardiovascular pipeline, Novartis has agreed to acquired Anthos Therapeutics for US$925 M upfront and potential additional payments of up to US$2.15 B upon achievement of specified regulatory and sales milestones. Through the deal, Novartis gains access to abelacimab, a potential first-in-class monoclonal antibody targeting the Factor XI inhibition pathway, currently in Phase III development for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation. Interestingly, the drug was originally discovered by Novartis but was out licensed to Anthos in 2019, when the company was launched by Blackstone Life Sciences.