Vertex Pharmaceuticals has agreed to acquire Crinetics Pharmaceuticals in a cash transaction valued at approximately $10B, expanding its portfolio in rare endocrine diseases.
Under the terms of the agreement, Vertex will pay $85 per share, representing an equity value of about $10.0 billion, or $8.8 billion net of cash. The transaction has been approved by both companies’ boards and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary conditions.
The acquisition adds Crinetics’ commercial and late-stage assets, including paltusotine, marketed as PALSONIFY, which received U.S. approval in 2025 for acromegaly. The drug is also approved in Europe and under review in other markets.
Crinetics’ pipeline includes atumelnant, an oral adrenocorticotropic hormone receptor antagonist currently in Phase 3 development for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). In mid-stage studies, the therapy demonstrated reductions in androgen levels while allowing use of physiologic glucocorticoid dosing.
Acromegaly and CAH are rare endocrine disorders with limited treatment options. Acromegaly is caused by excess growth hormone secretion, while CAH is a genetic condition affecting cortisol production and leading to hormonal imbalances.
Vertex said the acquisition is expected to contribute to revenue growth through the ongoing launch of paltusotine, with additional potential from atumelnant and other pipeline programs.
The deal reflects continued consolidation in the biotechnology sector, particularly in rare disease markets where companies are seeking to expand commercial portfolios and late-stage pipelines.
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