Sanofi has announced an agreement to acquire London-based biotechnology company Vicebio Ltd, expanding its presence in the respiratory vaccine space. The deal brings with it a promising early-stage combination vaccine candidate targeting both respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus (hMPV), as well as access to Vicebio’s proprietary ‘Molecular Clamp’ technology.
The acquisition aligns with Sanofi’s strategic goal of broadening its vaccine portfolio beyond flu and RSV prevention, offering a non-mRNA vaccine option for RSV and hMPV. This move is expected to increase choice for physicians and patients while reinforcing Sanofi’s leadership in respiratory virus protection.
Vicebio’s Molecular Clamp platform is designed to stabilize viral proteins in their native shape, improving the immune system’s ability to recognize and respond effectively. The technology supports the development of fully liquid vaccines that can be stored at standard refrigeration temperatures, simplifying distribution and manufacturing processes. These vaccines can also be delivered in prefilled syringes, enhancing usability and safety across healthcare settings.
“Vicebio’s ‘Molecular Clamp’ technology introduces a purposefully simple but thoughtful approach to further improve vaccine designs,” said Jean-François Toussaint, Global Head of R&D Vaccines at Sanofi. “This acquisition furthers Sanofi’s dedication to vaccine innovation, with the potential to develop next-generation combination vaccines that could protect older adults from multiple respiratory viruses with a single immunization.”
Vicebio’s pipeline includes VXB-241, a bivalent RSV and hMPV vaccine currently in an exploratory Phase 1 study in older adults, and VXB-251, a preclinical trivalent candidate targeting RSV, hMPV, and parainfluenza virus type 3 (PIV3). These viruses are among the leading causes of serious lower respiratory tract infections and contribute to seasonal illness surges, especially in vulnerable populations.
Vicebio CEO Emmanuel Hanon welcomed the acquisition, stating, “Sanofi’s global scale and expertise in vaccine development provide the ideal environment to realize the potential of our innovative technology.”
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.