UCB acquires Duke University biotech spin-off

Belgium’s largest pharma company UCB (Euronext Brussels: UCB) expects to strengthen its position in genomics and epigenomics research platform to identify novel drug targets with the acquisition of a US business.

UCB, whose shares were up 1.47% at 66.14 euros this morning, will acquire Element Genomics, a small-size biotech spin-off from Duke University, based in Durham, North Carolina, USA. The total cost of the transaction, including upfront and short-term success-based milestone payments, will amount to up to $30 million.

At the core of the Element Genomics platform is a suite of technologies to improve understanding of genome structure and function such as CRISPR editing technologies used for genomic and epigenomic regulatory region analysis and modulation, underpinned and enabled with advanced informatics capabilities, and driven by a strong scientific team. Element Genomics’ proven technologies and expertise will enhance UCB’s scientific research platform enabling the company to continue to enrich its pipeline, in particular strengthening target discovery and characterization in disease relevant systems.