** Shares of Vivani Medical VANI.O soars 19% to $1.55 premarket

** The biotech firm says it signed an agreement allowing Novo Nordisk to evaluate its experimental weight-loss drug implant

** NPM-139 is designed to provide long-lasting delivery of obesity medicines through an implant, potentially reducing the need for frequent injections - VANI

** The deal includes no exclusivity rights for Novo Nordisk

** Co expects to begin an early-stage human study in mid-2026, comparing the implant with Novo Nordisk's Wegovy obesity injections

** Study will assess safety and how the drug moves through the body, with the aim of advancing to a larger trial if results are positive

** As of last close, stock was up ~6% YTD