Biogen will acquire Apellis Pharmaceuticals for approximately US$5.6 billion.

The acquisition is expected to enhance Biogen’s short- and long-term revenue growth profile by adding two commercialised differentiated immunology and rare disease medicines to its growth portfolio: Syfovre, for the treatment of in geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration, and Empaveli, for the treatment of rare immune-mediated kidney diseases.

Apellis brings an established US sales infrastructure and capabilities that Biogen believes will accelerate and strengthen Biogen’s commercial readiness for felzartamab, which is currently in Phase 3 studies for three kidney diseases with the first trial readout expected in the first half of 2027. Upon closing the deal, Biogen expects a significant proportion of Apellis employees to join the company.

Christopher Viehbacher, Biogen’s President and Chief Executive Officer said the “acquisition immediately advances Biogen’s ongoing transformation”.

“The addition of Apellis expands our growth portfolio in immunology and rare disease with two approved, best-in-class medicines that complement our existing portfolio and bolsters our near-and long-term growth potential.”