Novartis Inks $1.35 Billion Deal with Mesoblast for Remestemcel-L for COVID-19 ARDS

Novartis inked an exclusive worldwide license and collaboration deal with Australia-based Mesoblast to develop, commercialize and manufacture remestemcel-L for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), including when it is linked to COVID-19. The company plans to launch a Phase III trial in non-COVID-19-related ARDS shortly after closing the deal. The drug is currently being evaluated in a Phase III trial in COVID-19-related ARDS.