Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP advised Novo Nordisk A/S on the in-licensing from Seattle-based ZymoGenetics, Inc. of a fully human anti-IL21 monoclonal antibody (IL-21 mAb) developed by ZymoGenetics, as well as broad intellectual property rights covering IL-21 mAb and the development of other IL-21 antibodies. The IL-21 mAb is a pre-investigational new drug application candidate for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Novo Nordisk in-licensed intellectual property rights to IL-21 antibodies outside North America in 2001 and, following the transaction, has worldwide rights.

Based in Denmark, Novo Nordisk is a health care company and a world leader in diabetes care. In addition, Novo Nordisk has a leading position within areas such as haemostasis management, growth hormone therapy and hormone replacement therapy. Novo Nordisk employs over 28,500 people in 81 countries and markets its products in 179 countries.

The Davis Polk corporate team included partner Jeffrey R. O'Brien and associates Sapna Dutta of the New York office and Thomas Quirxtner. Except as noted above, all members of the Davis Polk team are based in the London office.