Prnewswire·2026-01-07 21:17Core Viewpoint - Eli Lilly and Company has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Ventyx Biosciences for $14.00 per share, totaling approximately $1.2 billion, to enhance its capabilities in treating inflammatory-mediated diseases [1][3][4]. Company Overview - Eli Lilly is a biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative therapies for various health challenges, including diabetes, obesity, Alzheimer's disease, and immune system disorders [8]. - Ventyx Biosciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing oral therapies targeting inflammation-mediated diseases, with a focus on small molecule therapeutics [9]. Acquisition Details - The acquisition price represents a 62% premium over Ventyx's 30-day volume-weighted average trading price as of January 5, 2026 [4]. - The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026, pending approval from Ventyx stockholders and regulatory approvals [3][4]. - Entities affiliated with New Science Ventures and Ventyx's directors and officers have signed agreements to support the transaction, representing about 10% of Ventyx's outstanding common stock [5]. Clinical Pipeline - Ventyx's pipeline includes NLRP3 inhibitors aimed at treating chronic inflammation across various disease states, including cardiometabolic disorders and neurodegenerative diseases [2][3]. - The company's lead candidates include VTX2735, a Phase 2 NLRP3 inhibitor for recurrent pericarditis, and VTX3232, which has shown promise in reducing cardiovascular risk factors and is also being studied in early-stage Parkinson's disease [9]. Strategic Importance - The acquisition is seen as a strategic move for Lilly to strengthen its portfolio in addressing chronic inflammation, which is increasingly recognized as a key driver of many chronic diseases [3][4]. - Lilly's commitment to advancing innovative oral drugs aligns with Ventyx's focus on unmet medical needs in inflammatory diseases [3].