Incyte to Acquire Vega for up to $2 Billion

Rare Daily Staff

Incyte is expanding its hematology portfolio into bleeding disorders through a deal to acquire Vega Therapeutics for up to $2 billion, adding a late-stage asset for von Willebrand disease to its pipeline.

The company said it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Vega Therapeutics, a wholly owned subsidiary of Star Therapeutics, for $1.25 billion upfront, with up to $750 million in additional payments tied to sales milestones.

The acquisition centers on VGA039, an investigational monoclonal antibody currently in phase 3 development for von Willebrand disease (VWD), the most common inherited bleeding disorder. The therapy targets Protein S to improve hemostasis, with a mechanism designed to enhance platelet attachment and fibrin formation.

Incyte said the asset aligns with the company’s strategy to build a leading hematology franchise, citing its late-stage status, differentiated mechanism, and potential as a growth driver.

VGA039 is being evaluated in the ongoing phase 3 VIVID-6 study, a global crossover trial assessing subcutaneous administration as prophylaxis for bleeding across all types of VWD. If successful, the therapy could offer a more convenient alternative to current standard-of-care factor replacement therapies, which typically require intravenous infusions multiple times per week.

The drug is positioned as a potential first subcutaneous, once-monthly prophylactic option for VWD, addressing a key burden for patients managing chronic bleeding risk.

VGA039 has received multiple FDA designations, including Breakthrough Therapy, Fast Track, orphan drug, and rare pediatric disease status, reflecting both the seriousness of the condition and the potential for expedited development and review.

The transaction, structured as an equity acquisition, has been approved by both companies’ boards and is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, pending regulatory clearance and other customary conditions. Incyte said it expects to record an approximately $1.25 billion R&D charge related to the deal in its 2026 financial results.