UCB to buy Candid Therapeutics for up to $2.2 billion, targeting bispecific antibodies for autoimmune disease

UCB announced a deal to acquire Candid Therapeutics, a startup focused on bispecific antibody drugs, for an upfront payment of $2 billion with up to $200 million in future milestones. The transaction is expected to close by the end of the second quarter.

The acquisition adds a portfolio of antibody candidates that UCB believes represent the next wave of treatment for a range of autoimmune conditions. Candid’s assets were originally licensed from Chinese biotech partners and are being positioned as alternatives to broad immune suppression.

Bispecific antibodies, sometimes called double‑barreled antibodies, aim to reset the immune system more precisely. The move reflects growing competition in the space, where companies are also exploring T‑cell engagers that are simpler to produce and administer.