Takeda Acquires Nimbus’ TYK2 Inhibitor TAK-279 in a $4 Billion Deal, Intensifying Competition in Immunology

In late 2022, Takeda moved significantly in the immunology sector by acquiring Nimbus Therapeutics’ tyrosine kinase 2 medication, TAK-279, for $4 billion. This acquisition places Takeda in direct competition with Bristol Myers Squibb’s Sotyktu in the immunology market. Andy Plump, Takeda’s R&D head, revealed the competitive nature of the deal at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, noting that multiple companies were vying for the asset.

Takeda had been in talks with Nimbus for years before the acquisition and decided to proceed after thorough due diligence. The deal includes potential milestone payments to Nimbus if TAK-279 achieves specific revenue targets. Takeda’s move reflects the broader pharmaceutical industry’s interest in immunology and inflammation treatments, as evidenced by other significant acquisitions.

Takeda’s TAK-279, with its selective TYK2 pathway targeting and minimized JAK1 pathway inhibition, is viewed by Plump as a superior option in the market, potentially effective in areas where competitors like Sotyktu have limitations. TAK-279 is currently undergoing phase 2 trials for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, with plans to expand into inflammatory bowel disease studies.

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[Source: Fierce Biotechs, January 11th, 2023]