Novartis has signed a research partnership and license agreement with Unnatural Products (UNP) focused on the development of peptide therapeutics. The total value of the agreement reaches up to USD 1.7 billion. Peptide therapeutics represent a new class of drugs that use short chains of amino acids to treat various diseases. This collaboration will allow Novartis to expand its portfolio in the field of biotechnological medicines. The agreement includes both research activities and commercial rights for future products. The partnership with UNP is part of Novartis' strategy to focus on innovative prescription drugs, which is being promoted by the company's new chief Vas Narasimhan.