Takeda Pharmaceutical Company recently announced its plan to acquire an advanced biopharmaceutical company developing novel stem cell therapies for serious medical conditions, TiGenix NV. This acquisition will expand Takeda’s late stage pipeline and leadership in gastroenterology, strengthening its presence in the United States specialty care market. Takeda Pharmaceutical Company will subsequently enter into an offer and support agreement with TiGenix. This acquisition will extend the existing collaboration between Takeda and TiGenix to develop and commercialize darvadstrocel, which has received a positive CHMP opinion to treat complex perianal fistulas in Crohn’s disease. This will facilitate a recommended potential voluntary public takeover bid for TiGenix. This deal has the unanimous support of the CEO and TiGenix board of directors. The acquisition is a natural extension of an already existing partnership agreement between Takeda and TiGenix. Together, they have aimed to created new treatment options for patients with gastrointestinal disorders.

“As a leader in gastroenterology, Takeda recognizes the complex physical, emotional and social barriers that people living with fistulizing Crohn’s disease experience,” said Andrew Plump, Chief Medical and Scientific Officer, Takeda. “Limited treatment options exist today and I believe we can be most effective in serving this population by working in collaboration with partners whose unique skill sets allow us to more efficiently explore innovative approaches, including stem cell therapies. I have had the opportunity to work alongside the TiGenix team throughout our collaboration and know that we have shared goals and varied, but complementary expertise. I am thrilled at the prospect of welcoming them as part of our organization.”