BioNTech SE (BNTX, Financials) announced plans to acquire Biotheus, a clinical-stage biotechnology company, for $800 million, securing full global rights to BNT327/PM8002, an investigational bispecific antibody targeting PD-L1 and VEGF-A.
By enabling worldwide research, manufacture, and commercialization of BNT327/PM8002—which may be a next-generation checkpoint inhibitor for solid tumors—the acquisition seeks to further BioNTech's oncology strategy.
Along with possibly $150 million in milestone-based payments, BioNTech will pay $800 million in cash and a minor amount in American depositary shares. Early 2025 is expected to see the transaction close under pending regulatory approvals.
Planned for late 2024 and 2025, clinical studies for BNT327/PM8002 will concentrate on combination treatments across several cancer indications, including breast and lung malignancies. In almost 700 patients thus far, BNT327/PM8002 has shown good efficacy.
Along with internal bispecific antibody drug conjugate capabilities, Biotheus' pipeline assets, and a research base in China, BioNTech's acquisition also includes The agreement will also include 300 staff members and Biotheus's biologics production plant into BioNTech's activities.
Prof. Ugur Sahin, CEO of BioNTech, voiced hope for the ability of BNT327/PM8002 to establish a new benchmark in oncology treatment. The CEO of Biotheus, Xiaolin Liu, pointed to the common dedication to improve cancer treatments.
The Innovation Series R&D Day event on Nov. 14 will provide further information on the purchase and oncology pipeline of BioNTech.
Renowned for its immunotherapy developments, BioNTech works with several multinational pharmaceutical companies and keeps developing mRNA vaccines alongside its oncology pipeline.
