UCB Completes Acquisition of Candid Therapeutics for $2.2 Billion
UCB announced on Wednesday the completion of its acquisition of Candid Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotech specializing in T-cell engaging therapies. The transaction, valued at up to $2.2 billion, adds cizutamig, a drug candidate designed to target pathogenic B cells in autoimmune diseases, to its portfolio.
An Acquisition Valued at $2.2 Billion
UCB finalized the acquisition of Candid Therapeutics on Wednesday, a strategic move in the field of innovative immunotherapies. The transaction totals $2.2 billion, including $2 billion paid as an initial payment and up to $200 million in future milestone payments contingent on the achievement of clinical or regulatory milestones.
This acquisition strengthens UCB's position in immunology and expands its capabilities in next-generation biologics.
Cizutamig, a Bispecific Antibody in Phase 1
Cizutamig, the principal asset of Candid, is a bispecific antibody targeting the B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) present on plasma cells and CD3 on T cells. This agent is designed to promote the elimination of pathogenic B cell populations by T cells.
The drug candidate is currently being evaluated in several Phase 1 clinical trials for various autoimmune diseases. Cizutamig has not been approved by the FDA or other health authorities at this stage of development.
A Strategic Immunological Platform
This acquisition is part of UCB's strategy to strengthen its immunological platform around T-cell engaging therapies for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Concurrently, the group presented new Phase 2/3 data on Bimzelx (bimekizumab) in psoriatic arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis, as well as mechanistic data reinforcing the profile of Cimzia in rheumatoid arthritis, at Eular 2026 last week.
