Halda Therapeutics Announces Acquisition by Johnson & Johnson

Core Insights - Halda Therapeutics has entered into a definitive agreement for acquisition by Johnson & Johnson for $3.05 billion in cash, subject to customary adjustments [1][8] - The acquisition is expected to enhance the development of Halda's innovative RIPTAC™ platform, particularly the HLD-0915 therapy for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) [2][3] Company Overview - Halda Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing the RIPTAC™ modality, which employs a novel "hold and kill" mechanism for precision cancer treatment [7] - The company was founded in 2019 and has received funding from various investors, including Canaan Partners and RA Capital Management [7][9] Product Development - HLD-0915 is a first-in-class oral therapy currently in development for mCRPC, showing promising Phase 1/2 data with well-tolerated results and anti-tumor activity, including reductions in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) [2][6] - The therapy targets prostate cancer tumor cells by forming a ternary complex that disrupts BRD4 function selectively within cancer cells, leading to tumor shrinkage [5][6] Transaction Details - The acquisition is anticipated to close within a few months, pending customary closing conditions, including antitrust review [3] - Centerview Partners LLC is serving as the exclusive financial advisor to Halda, while Goodwin Procter is providing legal counsel [4]