By Fineline Cube 
UK-based major AstraZeneca (AZ; NASDAQ: AZN) announced the completion of its acquisition of EsoBiotec SA, an in vivo cell therapy biotech headquartered in Belgium. The total consideration for the acquisition is up to USD 1 billion, which includes an initial payment of USD 425 million and up to USD 575 million in contingent consideration based on development and regulatory milestones.
EsoBiotec’s Technology
EsoBiotec’s Engineered NanoBody Lentiviral (ENaBL) platform is a cutting-edge technology that enables the immune system to attack cancers. This platform allows many more patients to access transformative cell therapy treatments delivered in just minutes, compared to the current process which takes weeks. The technology utilizes highly targeted lentiviruses to deliver genetic instructions to specific immune cells, such as T cells, programming them to recognize and destroy tumor cells for cancer treatment or autoreactive cells for potential use in immune-mediated diseases.
Impact of the Acquisition
The acquisition of EsoBiotec’s ENaBL platform by AstraZeneca is expected to significantly enhance the company’s capabilities in cell therapy. This approach allows cell therapies to be administered through a simple IV injection without the need for immune cell depletion, making it more accessible and efficient for patients. This move underscores AstraZeneca’s commitment to advancing innovative treatments in oncology and immune-mediated diseases.-Fineline Info & Tech