US-based clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, Poseida Therapeutics (NASDAQ: PSTX), which specializes in donor-derived CAR-T cell therapies, has announced a definitive merger agreement with Roche (SWX: ROG). The deal, valued at a total equity value of USD 1.5 billion, is anticipated to close in the first quarter of 2025.
Expanding Allogeneic Cell Therapy Capabilities
Roche’s acquisition of Poseida Therapeutics is a strategic move to establish a new core capability in allogeneic cell therapy. Upon completion of the transaction, the Swiss pharmaceutical giant will gain access to Poseida’s GMP capabilities and other research and development (R&D) portfolio assets. This acquisition aligns with Roche’s goal of expanding its presence in the field of innovative cell therapies.
Building on a Previous Partnership
The two companies previously partnered in August 2022 to collaborate on the development of allogeneic CAR-T therapies for hematologic malignancies. The partnership has yielded several products, including:
- Anti-BCMA CAR-T therapy P-BCMA-ALLO1, currently in a Phase I study for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM).
- Dual-targeting, fully allogeneic T SCM-rich CAR-T product P-CD19CD20-ALLO1, in Phase I for B-cell malignancies.
- A preclinical allogeneic dual CAR-T therapy.
- Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) therapy P-CD70-ALLO1, with Roche holding an option for this therapy.-Fineline Info & Tech
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