Lilly to acquire Merida Biosciences for up to $2.875 billion
Eli Lilly agreed to buy Merida Biosciences for up to $2.875 billion in cash, including an upfront payment and contingent milestones, with the transaction expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026 subject to regulatory approvals. Merida develops biologics engineered to selectively degrade pathogenic autoantibodies, and its lead program MER511 is in Phase 1 for Graves' disease and thyroid eye disease with initial data showing robust reductions in thyroid-stimulating antibodies and a favorable early safety profile. The acquisition also brings preclinical programs such as MER769 for allergy-related antibodies and could broaden Lilly's disease-modifying immunology pipeline.
Lilly gains a platform to degrade pathogenic antibodies for multiple diseases
Context
Merida advanced its antibody-degrading platform into Phase 1 and reported initial reductions in pathogenic antibodies. Lilly is acquiring the company to add that platform and its programs. The deal must clear regulators and is expected to…
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