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Thu, Jun 18, 2026
Daily briefThursday, June 18, 2026
15 deals tracked · Updated 9:37 AM PDT·Full deal sheet
Platform·Healthcare/Pharma Services·June 18, 2026

Biogen to acquire RayThera in $1 billion deal

A lead small molecule candidate poised for Phase 1 development anchors the immunology pipeline Biogen gains in the transaction.

Takeaways

  • RayThera is a small molecule drug discovery company focused on immunology.
  • Biogen and RayThera are classified as a platform transaction.
  • The target serves immunology across San Diego, CA.
BuyerBiogen
TargetRayThera
TypePlatform
GeographySan Diego, CA
IndustryHealthcare
Sub-sectorPharma Services

Biogen will pay up to $1 billion in upfront cash and clinical and regulatory milestone payments to acquire RayThera Inc., a San Diego-based biotechnology company developing small molecule therapies for immune-mediated diseases.

The acquisition brings a pipeline of anti-inflammatory assets, led by a candidate expected to enter Phase 1 development in early Q3 2026.

“With its strong global development capabilities in immunology, we believe that Biogen is the natural fit to move these assets forward into Phase 1 development and beyond,” said Qing Dong, co-founder, Chairman and CEO of RayThera.

Once the deal closes, Biogen will take over development, manufacturing, and global commercialization of the portfolio.

RayThera recently completed its Series A financing co-led by Foresite Capital and OrbiMed Advisors, with participation from TTM Capital.