AstraZeneca has agreed to acquire Belgian biotechnology company EsoBiotec for up to $1 billion, aiming to enhance its cell therapy capabilities, particularly in oncology and autoimmune diseases. The deal includes an initial payment of $425 million, with up to $575 million contingent on achieving development and regulatory milestones. This acquisition aligns with AstraZeneca’s strategy to expand its cell therapy portfolio, following previous investments such as the purchase of Gracell Biotechnologies in late 2023.

EsoBiotec specialises in in-vivo CAR-T cell therapies, which genetically modify immune cells directly within the patient’s body, potentially reducing treatment times from weeks to minutes and lowering costs. This approach contrasts with traditional methods that require external genetic modification of extracted cells. The acquisition is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals, and is not anticipated to affect AstraZeneca’s financial guidance for the year.