Sanofi will acquire London-based biotechnology company Vicebio for more than US$1.15 billion, adding its vaccine technology to Sanofi's portfolio.
Vicebio is developing a combination vaccine candidate for two respiratory viruses with its Molecular Clamp technology, which will allow vaccines to be stored at standard refrigeration temperatures.
"Vicebio's ‘Molecular Clamp’ technology introduces a purposefully simple but thoughtful approach to further improve vaccine designs at a time when respiratory viral infections continue to impact millions globally”, said Sanofi vaccines global head of research and development Jean-François Toussaint.
“This acquisition furthers Sanofi's dedication to vaccine innovation with the potential to develop next-generation combination vaccines that could provide protection to older adults against multiple respiratory viruses with a single immunization."
Sanofi will acquire Vicebio’s share capital for US$1.15 billion, with additional payments of up to $450 million based on development or regulatory achievements, the company said. The deal is set to close in 2025’s fourth quarter.
Vicebio’s Molecular Clamp strategy, developed at the University of Queensland, stabilises viral proteins in their original shapes. This allows fully liquid vaccines to be stored at 2-8ºC, rather than freezing temperatures, which can aid in vaccine distribution.
Current vaccine candidates from Vicebio include a bivalent vaccine for the respiratory syncytial virus and human metapneumovirus, and a vaccine targeting both these viruses along with parainfluenza virus Type 3.
Sanofi also agreed to purchase United States-based company Blueprint Medicines last month for US$9.1 billion. Blueprint Medicines specialises in immunology medications.
Sanofi’s (EPA: SAN) share price closed at EU€82.55, up from its previous close at €82.30. Its market capitalisation is €100.71 billion.
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