Sanofi to acquire Vicebio, expanding respiratory vaccines pipeline
Sanofi has agreed to acquire Vicebio Ltd, a UK-based biotechnology company. The acquisition will add early-stage vaccine candidates and technology for respiratory viruses to Sanofi's portfolio.
PARIS, July 22, 2025 – Sanofi announced today it has entered into an agreement to acquire Vicebio Ltd., a privately held biotechnology company headquartered in London. The acquisition aims to enhance Sanofi's capabilities in developing vaccines against respiratory viruses.
The deal brings an early-stage combination vaccine candidate targeting Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV). Sanofi will also gain access to Vicebio's proprietary 'Molecular Clamp' technology, which stabilizes viral proteins in their native shape. This technology is expected to facilitate the development of more effective and stable vaccines.
Sanofi stated that the acquisition could lead to next-generation combination vaccines designed to protect older adults against multiple respiratory viruses with a single immunization. The company also highlighted that the new vaccine candidates are intended to be stored at standard refrigeration temperatures, potentially simplifying manufacturing and distribution compared to existing mRNA vaccines.
The transaction includes an upfront payment of $1.15 billion, with potential milestone payments of up to $450 million tied to development and regulatory achievements. The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals. Sanofi anticipates no significant impact on its 2025 financial guidance.