Valerio Therapeutics has signed a binding offer to acquire 100% of the share capital of Etherna Immunotherapies NV in a transaction valued at an enterprise amount of €30 million, subject to customary adjustments. The deal is intended to create a fully integrated biotechnology company focused on targeted RNA medicines by combining Valerio’s precision-guided nucleic acid technologies with Etherna’s messenger RNA and lipid nanoparticle platforms.
Etherna brings more than a decade of experience in mRNA and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technologies, including manufacturing up to GMP standards. Its proprietary suite includes customizable LNPs and advanced mRNA chemistry designed to enable differentiated RNA therapeutics. Valerio plans to unite three complementary platforms—nucleic acid chemistry, LNP delivery and targeted moiety engineering—within one organization supported by in‑house manufacturing and CMC capabilities, aiming to develop next‑generation RNA medicines that reach cell types beyond the liver.
The combined company expects to advance at least two programs in immunological indications into IND‑enabling studies and into the clinic within 18 to 24 months. Its lead project focuses on an in vivo CAR‑T approach targeting pathological B and T cells in immunological diseases. The strategy also foresees partnership, co‑development and licensing opportunities with large pharmaceutical companies seeking to extend nucleic acid medicines to a wider range of tissues and conditions, while maintaining Etherna’s existing collaborations via its manufacturing services.
The acquisition will be financed through a mix of cash, fully backed by commitments from Valerio’s current shareholders, and shares contributed in kind by Etherna shareholders, who will become investors in Valerio. Completion is subject to regulatory approvals, finalized transaction documentation, completion of the financing and shareholder approval of the share contributions. An extraordinary general meeting will be convened for that purpose, with voting undertakings from shareholders representing more than 70% of voting rights. The parties have entered a six‑week exclusivity period to finalize definitive agreements, and Etherna’s board of directors has unanimously approved the binding offer.
Subscribe to our e-Newsletters
Stay up to date with the latest news, articles, and events. Plus, get special offers
from American Pharmaceutical Review – all delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up now!