AbbVie to Acquire Capstan Therapeutics, Further Strengthening Commitment to Transforming Patient Care in Immunology

Core Insights - AbbVie has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Capstan Therapeutics for up to $2.1 billion, which includes the acquisition of CPTX2309, a potential first-in-class in vivo tLNP anti-CD19 CAR-T therapy candidate currently in Phase 1 for treating B cell-mediated autoimmune diseases [1][3] - The acquisition aims to leverage Capstan's proprietary tLNP platform technology for RNA delivery, which is designed to engineer specific cell types in vivo, potentially transforming the treatment landscape for autoimmune diseases [1][2] Company Overview - AbbVie is focused on discovering and delivering innovative medicines across key therapeutic areas, including immunology, oncology, neuroscience, and eye care, with a mission to address serious health issues [5] - Capstan Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing targeted in vivo RNA technologies, with its lead asset, CPTX2309, aimed at treating B cell-mediated autoimmune diseases [6][7] Technology and Innovation - CPTX2309 utilizes a proprietary technology platform that delivers mRNA encoding an anti-CD19 CAR to CD8-expressing cytotoxic T cells in vivo, which may lead to the depletion of autoreactive B cells and an immune reset [2][6] - The in vivo CAR-T technology represents a new treatment modality that combines the benefits of cell therapy with the accessibility of off-the-shelf biologics, potentially allowing for a broader application in treating autoimmune diseases [2][6] Financial Details - AbbVie will pay up to $2.1 billion in cash at closing for the acquisition of Capstan, subject to customary adjustments and closing conditions [3]