Novo Nordisk transferred rights to its stem‑cell derived islet and hypoimmune cell engineering technologies to Aspect Biosystems as part of a deal that lets Aspect develop the diabetes cell‑therapy programs while Novo retains options to reengage later. The move follows Novo’s decision to wind down its cell‑therapy unit and refocus on core diabetes and obesity franchises amid changing corporate priorities. Aspect will integrate Novo’s research and manufacturing capabilities into its Canadian operations and gained a head start on cell‑therapy development for diabetes and obesity. Novo provided upfront payments and is eligible for milestones, royalties and the option to return for later‑stage development and commercialization. The transaction preserves the programs’ development futures and reflects an industry pattern where large pharma sheds high‑cost platform bets to smaller, more focused cell‑therapy firms that can operate with lower burn and specialized expertise.