Janssen incorporates Novira Therapeutics following completion of takeover

Janssen has acquired Novira Therapeutics following the completion of parent company Johnson and Johnson's takeover of the business.

The clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specialises in developing innovative therapies for the curative treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and agreed to be purchased by Johnson and Johnson last month.

It now becomes part of Janssen's infectious diseases and vaccines therapeutic business, giving the firm access to Novira's portfolio of innovative antivirals, including its lead candidate NVR 3-778.

This investigational small-molecule direct-acting antiviral is intended for oral administration in patients with hepatitis B viral infections. It is currently undergoing phase Ib clinical testing.

Dr William Hait, global head of Janssen Research and Development, said: "Bringing together NVR 3-778 with our own internal discoveries, we will leverage our vast experience in viral diseases to develop potentially transformational medicines for hepatitis B patients."

Hepatitis B affects more than 350 million people worldwide and accounts for approximately 60 percent of hepatocellular carcinoma cases.