Sanofi Buys UK Biotech Vicebio in $1.6 Billion Deal to Boost Vaccine Pipeline
French pharmaceutical company Sanofi is acquiring Vicebio, a UK-based biotech startup developing next-generation vaccines, in a deal worth up to $1.6 billion. The agreement includes $1.15 billion paid upfront, with the remaining $450 million tied to future research and regulatory progress.
Vicebio is working on vaccines for respiratory viruses using a technology called Molecular Clamp, which helps the immune system better recognize viruses. This approach aims to deliver broad protection in a stable, easy-to-use format that doesn’t require ultra-cold storage. The company’s lead candidate is a dual vaccine targeting RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and hMPV (human metapneumovirus), two viruses that can cause serious illness in older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
For Sanofi, the acquisition is part of a larger push to focus more on innovative biotech. The company has been expanding its vaccines division and sees respiratory diseases as a major opportunity. By bringing Vicebio’s technology and early-stage vaccine candidates in-house, Sanofi aims to accelerate the development of effective solutions for a growing global health need.
The deal is expected to close by the end of 2025 and reflects the ongoing trend of big pharmaceutical companies investing in smaller, science-driven startups to stay competitive and boost innovation.
Sources:
A.M.
