Merck Sharp and Dohme to acquire immuno-oncology specialist Rigontec

Merck Sharp and Dohme has announced a deal to acquire Rigontec, a spin-out of Germany's University of Bonn that specialises in immuno-oncology innovations.

The company will make an upfront cash payment of 115 million euros (105.44 million pounds), plus an additional 349 million euros contingent upon the attainment of certain clinical, development, regulatory and commercial milestones.

Rigontec is a pioneer in accessing the retinoic acid-inducible gene I pathway, part of the innate immune system, as part of  a new approach in cancer immunotherapy that aims to induce both immediate and long-term antitumour immunity.

Its lead candidate, RGT100, is currently in phase I development and is being evaluated as a treatment in patients with various tumour types.

Dr Eric Rubin, vice-president of early-stage development for clinical oncology at Merck Research Laboratories, said: "We are eager to build upon Rigontec's science as we continue our efforts in bringing forward meaningful advances for patients with cancer."

This deal will strengthen Merck's capabilities in the field of immuno-oncology, a form of cancer treatment that harnesses the abilities of the body's own immune system.

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