# Ajax's drug works by blocking JAK2, a signaling protein that helps drive several blood cancers.

*biotech · news · 2026-04-27 · Reuters*

## Key points

- Ajax's lead drug, AJ1-11095, targets JAK2 with a novel binding mechanism not seen in current treatments.
- Lilly's acquisition includes milestones-based payments in addition to an upfront fee for Ajax.
- AJ1-11095 is being developed for both myelofibrosis and polycythemia vera indications.
- The new mechanism may help AJ1-11095 work in patients unresponsive to existing therapies.

**Companies:** Lilly, Ajax
**Countries:** India

[Read the full story on Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/legal/transactional/eli-lilly-acquire-ajax-therapeutics-up-23-billion-2026-04-27/)

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