StoryFunding
AstraZeneca completes acquisition of EsoBiotec for up to $1 billion to expand in vivo cell therapy pipeline
AstraZeneca completed the acquisition of EsoBiotec for up to $1 billion total ($425M upfront + $575M contingent milestones). EsoBiotec's in vivo CAR-T technology genetically modifies immune cells inside the patient's body using a lentiviral vector, eliminating the need for leukapheresis and external manufacturing.
- Total deal: $425M upfront + $575M in milestones = $1B
- ESO-T01 lead program for multiple myeloma
- Closed May 2025
- In vivo approach reduces manufacturing time and complexity
- Single-infusion, off-the-shelf potential if safety issues resolved