French biopharmaceutical company Ipsen (Euronext Paris:IPN) (ADR:IPSEY) announced on Wednesday that it has completed the acquisition of Memo Therapeutics AG, adding late-stage asset potravitug to its rare disease pipeline.

Potravitug is a first-in-class monoclonal antibody targeting BK polyomavirus reactivation in kidney transplant recipients.

The therapy demonstrated a significant antiviral response and resolution of BK polyomavirus-associated nephropathy in the Phase II SAFE KIDNEY II trial, the largest placebo-controlled study conducted in this patient population. Additional analyses presented at international renal and transplant congresses further supported its clinical profile and future development.

BK polyomavirus can reactivate in immunocompromised kidney transplant recipients, with approximately 30% experiencing high viral levels within the first year after transplant. The company said there are currently no approved targeted therapies for BK polyomavirus, and existing clinical management relies on reducing immunosuppression while protecting the transplanted organ.