Vertex to acquire Alpine Immune Sciences for $4.9 billion

U.S.-based Vertex Pharmaceuticals has agreed to pay approximately $4.9 billion in cash to acquire Alpine Immune Sciences, a compatriot biotech company focused on the discovery and development of innovative protein-based immunotherapies.

The transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies and is expected to close later this quarter.

Alpine's leading molecule, povetacicept (ALPN-303), is a dual antagonist of BAFF (B-cell activating factor) and APRIL (proliferation-inducing ligand). Povetacicept has shown potential best-in-class efficacy in IgA nephropathy (IgAN) through Phase 2 development, the companies said in a joint statement. IgAN is a severe, progressive autoimmune kidney disease that can lead to end-stage renal disease. To date, there are no approved treatments for the underlying cause of IgAN. Povetacicept is expected to enter Phase 3 clinical development in the second half of 2024.

Due to its mechanism of action as a dual BAFF/APRIL antagonist, povetacicept has the potential to benefit patients with other severe renal autoimmune diseases.