Eli Lilly and Company has made a definitive agreement to acquire Verve Therapeutics, a Boston-based company focusing on genetic medicines for cardiovascular diseases. This ambitious acquisition aims to enhance the development of innovative treatments that could potentially reduce cardiovascular risks with just a single dose.
Verve’s lead program, known as VERVE-102, is a groundbreaking in vivo gene editing therapy targeting the PCSK9 gene, which is linked to cholesterol levels and heart health. This treatment is particularly relevant for individuals with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, a condition that affects about 1 in 250 people, as well as some patients with premature coronary artery disease. Currently, VERVE-102 is undergoing evaluation in a Phase 1b clinical trial and has received Fast Track designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Ruth Gimeno, a top executive at Lilly, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, highlighting its potential to transform cardiovascular treatment from ongoing management to a one-time therapy, significantly benefiting patients with chronic cardiovascular conditions.
Verve’s CEO, Sekar Kathiresan, echoed this sentiment, noting that the collaboration with Lilly aligns perfectly with their mission to revolutionize cardiovascular care through innovative gene editing. He expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Verve team and the contributions of both investigators and patients in progressing their clinical trials.
Financially, Lilly’s offer to acquire Verve includes $10.50 per share in cash, totaling approximately $1 billion, with additional contingent value rights potentially raising the total to $1.3 billion, contingent upon VERVE-102 entering Phase 3 clinical trials.
The acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to usual closing conditions, including the acceptance of the tender offer by a majority of Verve’s shareholders. This move is not only seen as a strategic expansion for Lilly but also as a substantial step towards addressing significant unmet medical needs in the field of cardiovascular health.
This acquisition could pave the way for improved treatment solutions for millions suffering from cardiovascular diseases, underscoring the hope that innovative advancements in genetic medicine could markedly change patient outcomes in the future.