Sanofi to Acquire Vigil Neuroscience to Strengthen Alzheimer’s Drug Pipeline
Thursday, May 22, 2025
Sanofi has announced an agreement to acquire Vigil Neuroscience.
The acquisition will enhance Sanofi’s early-stage neurology pipeline one of its four strategic therapeutic areas.
The deal includes VG-3927, an oral small molecule designed to activate TREM2, a receptor involved in supporting brain immune cells called microglia. VG-3927 is set to be evaluated in a phase 2 clinical study for Alzheimer’s disease. TREM2 activation is believed to boost microglial function, helping clear cellular debris and reduce inflammation, which could potentially slow neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s patients.
This move follows Sanofi’s $40 million strategic investment in Vigil in June 2024, which granted Sanofi the exclusive right of first negotiation for VG-3927. The current acquisition signals Sanofi’s continued focus on strengthening its position in neurology and addressing unmet needs in Alzheimer’s disease, where current therapies offer limited benefits and strict treatment criteria.
Vigil’s expertise in TREM2-targeted treatments complements Sanofi’s existing capabilities in neurology and immunology. The acquisition excludes Vigil’s second programme, VGL101, which remains outside the deal.
Under the terms of the agreement, Sanofi will acquire all outstanding common shares of Vigil at $8 per share in cash, valuing the transaction at approximately $470 million on a fully diluted basis. Additionally, Vigil shareholders will receive a non-transferable contingent value right (CVR) worth $2 per share, payable upon the first commercial sale of VG-3927.
The acquisition is subject to standard closing conditions, including shareholder approval, regulatory clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, and other customary approvals. Around 16.2% of Vigil’s shares are already committed in favour of the transaction through support agreements signed by major stakeholders, including Atlas Ventures and Vigil’s CEO.
This acquisition demonstrates Sanofi’s proactive approach to partnering and investment in neuroscience, aiming to deliver more effective and accessible treatment options for people affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
Source: sanofi.com
