Sanofi's Strategic Move into Respiratory Vaccines

In a significant step to bolster its vaccine development capabilities, Sanofi announced on Tuesday its agreement to acquire UK-based Vicebio for up to $1.6 billion. This acquisition is set to enhance Sanofi's pipeline with Vicebio's innovative 'Molecular Clamp' technology and an early-stage combination vaccine candidate targeting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus (hMPV).

Financial Details and Expected Timeline

The deal includes an upfront payment of $1.15 billion, with potential additional payments of up to $450 million tied to regulatory and development milestones. Sanofi anticipates the transaction to be finalized in the fourth quarter, pending standard closing conditions and regulatory approvals.