Germany's BioNTech Acquires CureVac to Accelerate Cancer Research Using mRNA Technology
Germany's BioNTech is acquiring CureVac for $1.25 billion to strengthen its mRNA technology platform and accelerate the development of innovative cancer immunotherapies, marking a significant move in biotech research.
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
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Does Consuming Cheese Before Bed Really Cause Nightmares? Scientific Insights Explored
Explore the scientific evidence behind the popular myth that eating cheese before bed causes nightmares and learn how diet affects sleep quality and dreaming.
Innovative Blood Test Detects Multiple Sclerosis Risk Years Before Symptoms Manifest
A novel blood test developed by Vienna researchers can predict multiple sclerosis risk years before symptoms appear by detecting specific antibodies linked to Epstein-Barr virus infection, enabling early diagnosis and intervention.
Increased Risk of Physician Burnout Associated with Incomplete Staffing Levels
A recent study links incomplete staffing levels with higher burnout rates among physicians, emphasizing the importance of proper team composition to improve doctor well-being.