Global biopharmaceutical leader UCB announced today a definitive agreement to acquire Neurona Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotech company specializing in regenerative cell therapies for epilepsy and nervous system disorders.
The deal, valued at up to 1.15 billion dollars, includes a 650 million dollars upfront payment and up to 500 million dollars in milestone-based payments, marking a significant leap in UCB’s pursuit of next-generation, disease-modifying treatments for epilepsy.
The acquisition centers on NRTX-1001, Neurona’s lead investigational asset – a neuronal cell therapy currently in Phase I/II clinical trials for drug-resistant mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE), the most common form of focal epilepsy.
This condition, which often resists conventional treatments, imposes a heavy burden on patients, affecting memory, emotions, behavior, and daily functioning.
UCB, with its 30-year legacy in epilepsy innovation, aims to extend its leadership by integrating Neurona’s regenerative science platform. The therapy, administered as a single, minimally invasive dose, introduces cells that produce the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, targeting the repair and rebalancing of overactive neural networks. Early data suggest potential for durable seizure reduction, offering hope for patients with limited treatment options.
NRTX-1001 has already earned Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy (RMAT) designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and PRIME (Priority Medicines) designation from the European Medicines Agency (EMA), underscoring its potential to address critical unmet needs in epilepsy care.
Jean-Christophe Tellier, CEO of UCB, emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition: “This acquisition exemplifies our innovation strategy and reinforces UCB’s commitment to transforming the lives of people with epilepsy. For decades, we have been at the forefront of epilepsy science. With NRTX-1001, we are entering the era of regenerative medicine, potentially offering a one-time, targeted repair of the nervous system for those living with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy.”
Cory R. Nicholas, PhD, Co-founder and CEO of Neurona Therapeutics, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: “UCB’s global leadership in epilepsy and shared commitment to scientific innovation make them the ideal partner to accelerate NRTX-1001’s development. Together, we can unlock the full potential of regenerative therapies for patients worldwide.”
Financial outlook and next steps
The transaction, expected to close by the end of Q2 2026, remains subject to regulatory approvals, including antitrust clearance. UCB has confirmed that its 2026 revenue guidance remains unchanged, with growth projected in the high single-digit to low double-digit range at constant exchange rates. However, the company now anticipates high single-digit to mid-teens growth in adjusted EBITDA, reflecting the strategic value of the acquisition.
This acquisition underscores UCB’s ambition to move beyond symptomatic management, offering disease-modifying therapies that could redefine epilepsy care. By combining Neurona’s regenerative platform with UCB’s global reach and expertise, the collaboration aims to deliver transformative solutions for patients with high unmet needs.
About UCB
UCB is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing innovative medicines for people living with severe diseases, including epilepsy, immunology, and neurology. With a heritage spanning over 90 years, UCB is committed to advancing science to improve patients’ lives worldwide.
About Neurona Therapeutics
Neurona Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering regenerative cell therapies for neurological disorders, including epilepsy. Its platform leverages pluripotent stem cell technology to restore neural function and improve patient outcomes.
