Merck Acquires CN201 B-Cell Therapy from Curon Bio

Merck Broadens Pipeline with Acquisition of CN201 Bispecific Antibody

On October 1, 2024, at 6:45 am ET, Merck (NYSE: MRK), a global leader in the biopharmaceutical industry, announced the successful acquisition of CN201 from Curon Biopharmaceutical. CN201 is an innovative investigational bispecific antibody currently in clinical development for the treatment of B-cell associated diseases, including both malignancies and autoimmune disorders.

CN201 operates by targeting and actively depleting B-cells, offering substantial potential across a range of conditions. Dr. Dean Y. Li, president of Merck Research Laboratories, emphasized that the acquisition will enable Merck to build on the groundwork laid by Curon, enhancing their ability to address unmet medical needs in B-cell related diseases.

The bispecific antibody CN201 is under investigation in Phase 1 and Phase 1b/2 clinical trials. These studies focus on patients with relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) and B-cell acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), respectively. Early data from these trials indicate that CN201 shows promising efficacy in reducing B-cell populations in patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell hematologic cancers. The treatment has been well tolerated, suggesting it could offer significant and lasting benefits.

Merck’s acquisition of CN201 grants the company full global rights to the antibody. The transaction is recognized as an asset acquisition, with Merck incurring a pre-tax charge of approximately $750 million. This amount, which includes the upfront payment and associated costs, equates to roughly $0.28 per share. This charge will be reflected in Merck’s third-quarter non-GAAP financial results and was not anticipated in the company’s full-year financial outlook issued on July 30. Merck will provide a comprehensive update to its financial outlook when it releases its third-quarter results on October 31.

CN201 is a cutting-edge CD3xCD19-targeting T-cell-engager bispecific antibody designed specifically to eliminate B-cells by engaging T-cells. This innovative approach is being actively evaluated for its efficacy and safety in treating severe B-cell disorders such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and acute lymphocytic leukemia, both of which are currently in advanced stages of clinical trials.

Merck, also known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, has a storied history of over 130 years in developing critical medicines and vaccines. The company aims to be the leading research-intensive biopharmaceutical entity globally, pushing the boundaries of science to save and improve lives. Merck’s dedication to innovative health solutions encompasses both human and animal health, and the company is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. They strive to operate responsibly to ensure a safe, sustainable, and healthy future for all.

Through the acquisition of CN201, Merck strengthens its pipeline and underscores its commitment to addressing difficult-to-treat conditions through advanced scientific research. The integration of CN201 into Merck’s portfolio represents a strategic expansion in their efforts to combat B-cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases, providing hope for patients with limited treatment options.