In a strategic move to strengthen its metabolic disease portfolio, Novo Nordisk has agreed to acquire Akero Therapeutics in a deal worth up to US$5.2 B. The acquisition grants Novo Nordisk full rights to efruxifermin (EFX), a Phase III fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) analogue being developed for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a progressive liver disease with no approved treatments. The acquisition aligns with Novo Nordisk’s efforts to address a growing global burden of chronic liver conditions and complements its existing therapies in diabetes and obesity.