Global veterinary pharmaceuticals business Dechra has announced its intention to acquire American biotechnology firm Invetx.
Invetx, headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, specialises in developing protein-based therapeutics for chronic conditions in companion animals, with a focus on monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). The acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approval, will give Dechra entry into the high-growth mAbs market and give the company access to a pipeline of new products for dogs and cats.
Dechra chief executive Jesper Nordengaard said: “I regard this acquisition as hugely important for Dechra, marking the start of a new chapter in our growth.
“It demonstrates our ambition to create further points of differentiation and relevance with veterinarians and pet owners alike, confidence in our ability to deliver highly innovative new products, and capacity to execute large scale transactions at speed.
“The half-life extension technology developed by Invetx allows for the generation of therapeutics that make treatment of chronic conditions far more convenient for pet owners and veterinarians through improved compliance. The pipeline of products currently being developed are all high value potential and will deepen our expertise in core therapeutic areas such as atopic dermatitis and osteoarthritis, allowing for synergistic product development, sales and marketing, and education efforts in the future.”
Invetx chief executive Dr Jürgen Horn added: “Becoming part of the Dechra Group marks a significant milestone for Invetx. We set out to become a leader in creating protein-based therapeutics for companion animals and are delighted to progress our pipeline with an ambitious partner such as Dechra.
“Together, we have an exciting future as we work to bring differentiated and best in class monoclonal antibody therapeutics for dogs and cats to the market.”
