Eli Lilly to Acquire Merida Biosciences for Up to $2.875 Billion in Cash
Eli Lilly has agreed to acquire biotechnology company Merida Biosciences for up to $2.875 billion in cash. Merida is developing selective antibody-targeting therapies for immune-related diseases, with lead candidate MER511 in early-stage development for Graves' disease and thyroid eye disease. The deal expands Lilly's pipeline in immunology and allergy, following a series of acquisitions fueled by strong demand for its obesity drugs.
Eli Lilly announced it will acquire biotechnology company Merida Biosciences for up to $2.875 billion in cash.
Merida Biosciences is developing drugs that selectively target disease-causing antibodies in multiple immune-related conditions. Its lead candidate, MER511, is in early-stage development for autoimmune diseases including Graves' disease and thyroid eye disease.
Driven by robust demand for its obesity medications, Eli Lilly has been pursuing a steady stream of acquisitions, with deal spending in 2026 exceeding that of previous years. The acquisition aims to expand its pipeline of potential therapies for immune-related and allergic diseases.
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