Germany's BioNTech Acquires CureVac to Accelerate Cancer Research Using mRNA Technology

Germany's leading biotechnology companies, BioNTech and CureVac, are set to combine their efforts through a $1.25 billion acquisition by BioNTech of CureVac. This strategic move unites two prominent firms specializing in mRNA technology, aiming to advance innovative cancer therapies. BioNTech, renowned for developing the first widely approved COVID-19 vaccine in the West alongside Pfizer, emphasized that this acquisition would enhance their ability to leverage complementary capabilities and cutting-edge technologies.

Both companies have a strong history in developing mRNA-based solutions, which stimulate an immune response by delivering genetic instructions to human cells. While mRNA technology gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, scientists believe its applications extend well beyond infectious diseases, potentially transforming the treatment landscape for numerous illnesses.

BioNTech plans for this acquisition to significantly bolster its immunotherapy programs targeting cancer. The company's CEO, Ugur Sahin, highlighted that this deal is a vital component of their oncology strategy and a step toward setting new standards for cancer care in the future. CureVac's CEO, Alexander Zehnder, added that the acquisition would bring together essential scientific expertise, technological innovations, and manufacturing capabilities in the mRNA field under one roof.

The deal, which is an all-stock agreement, has received unanimous approval from both firms' management and supervisory boards. It is expected to close in 2025, pending regulatory approvals. Both BioNTech and CureVac are listed on the Nasdaq and have a shared history in vaccine development, with BioNTech’s COVID vaccine achieving global success. CureVac, founded 25 years ago by mRNA pioneer Ingmar Hoerr, shifted away from their COVID efforts after less successful trials and even filed patent infringement lawsuits against BioNTech in 2022.

This acquisition marks a significant step in expanding the potential of mRNA technology for cancer treatments and could pave the way for new standards of care in oncology.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-germany-biontech-buy-curevac-boost.html