Merck, Sharp & Dohme (MSD; NYSE: MRK) has entered into an agreement to acquire UK-based ophthalmology specialist Eyebiotech Limited for an upfront payment of USD 1.3 billion, plus potential milestone payments of up to USD 1.7 billion. The deal is anticipated to be finalized in the third quarter of 2024, subject to the fulfillment of customary closing conditions.
Eyebiotech’s pipeline is concentrated on the prevention and treatment of vision loss related to retinal vascular leakage. Their lead candidate, the tetravalent, tri-specific antibody known as Restoret, has successfully completed a Phase Ib/IIa trial for diabetic macular edema (DME) and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (NVAMD). The company plans to initiate a Phase IIb/III study for DME later this year.- Flcube.com
