XTL Biopharmaceuticals Acquires 85% of Beyond Air's Subsidiary NeuroNOS, Targeting the Autism Market with Nobel Prize-Winning Expertise
Date: January 13, 2026
Source: GlobeNewsWire
XTL Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. (NASDAQ: XTLB; TASE: XTLB.TA) has announced a groundbreaking acquisition in the autism therapeutics space, acquiring 85% of NeuroNOS Ltd., a subsidiary of Beyond Air, Inc. (NASDAQ: XAIR). This strategic move positions XTL as a significant player in the burgeoning market for autism treatments, focusing on developing innovative therapies that address the core pathophysiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and neuro-oncology.
The Urgent Need for Autism Therapeutics
Currently, Autism Spectrum Disorder affects approximately 1 in 31 children in the United States, creating immense challenges for healthcare systems and families alike. Despite extensive research, there are still no FDA-approved disease-modifying therapies available for autism. The available treatments primarily manage behavioral symptoms rather than addressing the underlying neurobiological mechanisms, leaving many families without effective options.
Recognizing the urgency of this crisis, the U.S. government has pledged $50 million in NIH funding for autism research initiatives, indicating a significant shift in priorities towards autism care and development.
Nobel Prize-Winning Leadership at NeuroNOS
NeuroNOS is led by Professor Haitham Amal, an esteemed autism researcher from Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Harvard University. The team has also recently included two Nobel Laureates in Chemistry: Professor Dan Shechtman of Technion and Professor Roger Kornberg of Stanford University. This unparalleled scientific expertise underpins NeuroNOS’s commitment to innovative autism and neuro-oncology therapeutics.
Validated Technology and FDA Designations
NeuroNOS has developed a proprietary platform targeting nitric oxide (NO) dysregulation, a critical factor in both autism and other neurological conditions. The company has received FDA Orphan Drug Designations for Phelan-McDermid Syndrome, a rare disorder with strong connections to autism, and Glioblastoma, a highly aggressive form of brain cancer. These designations enable NeuroNOS to benefit from expedited regulatory review and market exclusivity upon approval.
Details of the Acquisition
Under the terms of the agreement, XTL Biopharmaceuticals will acquire 85% ownership of NeuroNOS for a total consideration that includes 19.9% of XTL's issued share capital, $1 million in cash, and potential milestone payments of up to $32.5 million. The milestone structure provides for clinical development payments and commercial incentives based on product sales targets.
Leadership Remarks on the Acquisition
Noam Band, CEO of XTL Biopharmaceuticals, stated, "We are extremely excited to enter the autism field, which represents one of the most significant unmet medical needs today. With our extraordinary scientific team, including two Nobel Laureates, we have the expertise to advance these programs with the urgency they deserve."
Steve Lisi, Chairman and CEO of Beyond Air Inc., added, "This transaction validates the groundbreaking science we've been developing. We believe this focused public platform will enable NeuroNOS’s pipeline to advance with the necessary resources and commitment to create meaningful value for shareholders."
About NeuroNOS
NeuroNOS is at the forefront of developing small-molecule therapeutics targeting neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders by regulating nitric oxide levels in the brain. Through collaborations with top research institutions, the company aims to deliver transformative therapies for patients facing autism and related conditions.