Boehringer Ingelheim buys Swiss equine biotech Evax to build vaccine pipeline
What's the deal? Boehringer IngelheimDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → has acquired Evax AGDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, a Swiss biotech developing therapeutic vaccines for horses. Founded over a decade ago at the University of ZurichDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, Evax focuses on treating allergic skin diseases in horses. Terms were not disclosed.
What's the endgame? Evax's vaccines use virus-like particles to prompt a horse's immune system to produce neutralising antibodies, targeting the underlying cause of disease rather than symptoms.
Current treatments — shampoos, topical therapies, and corticosteroids — offer only temporary relief or carry safety concerns. Boehringer says its approach could deliver longer-lasting results and better compliance.
Why now? The deal builds on Boehringer's collaboration with and 2024 acquisition of Saiba Animal HealthDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, extending its work in therapeutic vaccines.
"The acquisition of Evax advances our strategy to drive breakthrough innovation in our preventive and therapeutic portfolio," said Knut Elbers, head of global innovation for the company's animal health business.
Antonia Gabriel, Evax's chief executive officer and founder, said the company would "tap their innovation, supply and commercial expertise" to advance its treatments.
The signal: The purchase points to growing interest in virus-like particle technology across animal health. Boehringer sees potential beyond horses, including chronic diseases in pets — a bet that biotech tools long applied to humans can reshape veterinary medicine.
Read more: AP News
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