Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS; NYSE: BMY) has entered into a definitive merger agreement with US-based oncology specialist Mirati Therapeutics (NASDAQ: MRTX) in a transaction valued at USD 4.8 billion, with an additional potential contingent value right (CVR) payment of up to USD 1.0 billion to Mirati stockholders. The companies anticipate completing the transaction by the first half of 2024, subject to customary closing conditions.
Expanding Oncology Portfolio
Through this merger, BMS will gain access to Mirati’s lead asset, Krazati (adagrasib), a KRASG12C inhibitor with a long half-life that is already approved for locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The drug also shows promise in treating central nervous system (CNS) cancers, colorectal cancer (CRC), and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, broadening BMS’s oncology portfolio and strengthening its position in the market.
Mirati’s Promising Pipeline
Mirati’s pipeline is robust, featuring the KRASG12D inhibitor MRTX1133, SOS1 inhibitor MRTX0902, and the potential first-in-class MTA-cooperative PRMT5 inhibitor MRTX1719. MRTX1719 is currently in Phase I trials for MTAP-deleted solid tumors, indicating the depth of Mirati’s research and development efforts in targeted oncology therapies.
Strategic Implications and Future Outlook
The merger with Mirati Therapeutics is a strategic move for Bristol Myers Squibb, enhancing its oncology capabilities and providing access to a pipeline of innovative cancer treatments. This acquisition aligns with BMS’s commitment to delivering transformative therapies to patients and further establishes the company as a leader in the fight against cancer.-Fineline Info & Tech
