Press Release: Sanofi to acquire Vigil Neuroscience, Inc., adding a new investigational medicine to treat Alzheimer's disease to the neurology pipeline

Core Viewpoint - Sanofi has announced its acquisition of Vigil Neuroscience, enhancing its neurology pipeline with a focus on developing treatments for Alzheimer's disease, specifically through the investigational drug VG-3927 [1][5]. Company Overview - Sanofi is a global healthcare company dedicated to improving lives through innovative treatments and vaccines, emphasizing sustainability and social responsibility [10]. - Vigil Neuroscience is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on novel therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's [1][3]. Acquisition Details - Sanofi will acquire all outstanding common shares of Vigil for $8 per share, totaling an equity value of approximately$470 million on a fully diluted basis [8]. - Vigil's shareholders will also receive a contingent value right (CVR) entitling them to a deferred cash payment of $2 upon the first commercial sale of VG-3927 [8]. - The acquisition is expected to close in Q3 2025, pending customary conditions including shareholder approval and regulatory clearance [9]. Strategic Importance - The acquisition aligns with Sanofi's strategic focus on neurology and aims to leverage its expertise in immunology to address critical unmet needs in Alzheimer's treatment [2][5]. - VG-3927, an oral small molecule TREM2 agonist, is anticipated to enhance the neuroprotective function of microglia, potentially improving outcomes for Alzheimer's patients [1][3]. Market Context - Current Alzheimer's therapies do not halt or reverse disease progression, highlighting the urgent need for more effective treatment options [4]. - Sanofi's prior$40 million investment in Vigil demonstrates its proactive approach to securing innovative solutions in the healthcare sector [5].