Zymeworks acquires Theravance Biopharma for expanded biotech portfolio

Zymeworks Inc., a Vancouver-based biotechnology firm specializing in antibody engineering, has completed the acquisition of Theravance Biopharma, expanding its portfolio of biotherapeutic assets and commercial partnerships. The transaction, finalized on Monday, integrates Theravance’s existing products and pipeline with Zymeworks’ proprietary Azymetric platform, which focuses on antibody-drug conjugates and multispecific antibodies. Among the key additions are YUPELRI (revefenacin), a commercialized urinary incontinence treatment, and Ziihera (zanidatamab-hrii), a HER2-targeted bispecific antibody co-developed with Jazz Pharmaceuticals and BeOne Medicines. Additionally, the deal includes Pasritamig, a clinical-stage antibody under development by Johnson & Johnson using Zymeworks’ technology. The company will host a conference call on September 28 at 8:30 a.m. ET to discuss transaction details, with a webcast replay available within 24 hours on its investor relations platform. Forward-looking statements in the press release highlight anticipated benefits, including potential sales growth for YUPELRI, future royalty payments, and the clinical development of new candidates. However, actual outcomes may vary due to regulatory hurdles, commercial risks, and development uncertainties.