Novo Nordisk announced a collaboration with Boston-based biotech Vivtex on February 25, 2026, to develop next-generation oral biologic medicines for obesity and diabetes.1236
The deal is worth up to $2.1 billion, including upfront payments, milestones, research funding, and royalties.124
Vivtex, founded in 2018 by MIT scientists including Robert Langer, Giovanni Traverso, and CEO Thomas von Erlach, uses a proprietary GI-ORIS 'gut-on-a-chip' platform for oral delivery of biologics.1234
The partnership follows Novo's recent approval of oral Wegovy and a clinical setback for CagriSema against Eli Lilly's Zepbound.124
Novo will handle further development and commercialization of successful candidates.46
Sources:
1. https://www.biospace.com/business/novo-leans-into-oral-route-with-weight-loss-partnership-worth-up-to-2-1b
2. https://www.biopharmadive.com/news/vivtex-novo-nordisk-oral-obesity-drugs-biologics/812754/
3. https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/25/novo-nordisk-vivtex-langer-obesity-diabetes/
4. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/novo-nordisk-inks-21b-pact-langer-startup-boost-oral-drug-delivery-prowess