Novartis has agreed to acquire Tourmaline Bio for approximately $1.4 billion, securing exclusive rights to pacibekitug, a promising anti-IL-6 monoclonal antibody aimed at tackling atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) by targeting systemic inflammation. In-licensed from Pfizer, pacibekitug reduces key inflammatory biomarkers with a favorable safety profile, representing a potential new approach in cardiovascular risk management. Novartis plans to advance the therapy into Phase 3 trials, diversifying its portfolio and addressing unmet needs in heart disease treatment.