Former Akero executives launch Avere Therapeutics, unveiling China-sourced pipeline drug and reverse merger plan

The former leadership team of Akero Therapeutics announced the creation of a new in‑licensing company called Avere Therapeutics. The launch was made public on Tuesday and includes a pipeline drug sourced from China.

Avere plans to bring the Chinese candidate into its portfolio through a reverse merger structure, signaling a fast‑track approach to market entry. The move follows Akero's recent $4.7 billion sale to Novo Nordisk, highlighting continued interest in Chinese biotech assets.

The announcement underscores the accelerating pace of collaborations between U.S. executives and Chinese drug developers, though specific details about the drug’s target or timeline were not disclosed.