Bristol Myers Squibb Buys Orbital Therapeutics in $1.5B RNA Push
The acquisition bolsters BMY's cell therapy pipeline with a next-generation RNA platform aimed at treating autoimmune diseases.
Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) is set to acquire the privately held Orbital Therapeutics in a significant strategic move designed to enhance its leadership in cell therapy. The pharmaceutical giant , signaling a deep investment into next-generation RNA medicines.
The deal centers on Orbital's innovative RNA platform, which includes both circular and linear RNA engineering, advanced delivery systems, and AI-driven design. This platform's primary goal is to develop programmable RNA therapies for a wide range of diseases, with a key focus on autoimmune conditions. By integrating Orbital's technology, Bristol Myers Squibb aims to diversify its portfolio beyond its current core assets and pioneer new treatment paradigms.
At the heart of the acquisition is Orbital's lead preclinical candidate, OTX-201, an investigational RNA immunotherapy. This therapy is designed to reprogram a patient's own cells within the body (in vivo) to target B cells implicated in autoimmune disorders. This method offers a , which require a complex and costly process of extracting, modifying, and reinfusing a patient's cells.
Company executives highlighted the transformative potential of the technology. . He added that the deal strengthens BMY's research platform and provides an opportunity to deplete autoreactive B cells and reset the immune system effectively.
The market reaction to the announcement was measured. On the day of the news, , suggesting investors view this as a long-term strategic play rather than a source of immediate financial upside. The transaction, which is still subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, builds on BMY's existing leadership in cell therapy, where it already has two approved CAR T-cell treatments.