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Acquisition · Hematology · Incyte · Vega Therapeutics
Incyte has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Vega Therapeutics, a wholly owned subsidiary of Star Therapeutics, for an upfront payment of $1.25 billion and up to $750 million in sales milestone payments, totaling a potential consideration of $2 billion, significantly expanding Incyte's hematology portfolio.
This strategic acquisition adds VGA039, a novel investigational monoclonal antibody in Phase 3 development, to Incyte’s hematology pipeline, specifically targeting von Willebrand disease (VWD). VGA039, which promotes platelet attachment and enhances fibrin deposition to restore hemostasis, has received Breakthrough Therapy, Fast Track, orphan drug, and rare pediatric disease designations from the FDA.
The drug offers the potential to be the first subcutaneous prophylactic therapy with a convenient once-monthly dosing regimen for VWD patients, who currently require two to three intravenous infusions each week. The transaction, approved by both companies’ Boards of Directors, is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, pending Hart-Scott-Rodino antitrust review.
Incyte CEO Bill Meury stated VGA039 fits directly into their strategy of building a top-tier growth company, while Star Therapeutics CEO Adam Rosenthal highlighted Incyte's expertise in hematology.
