Merck Acquires Silence Therapeutics for ~€1B, Gains Rare Blood Cancer Drug

Merck KGaA announced the acquisition of UK biotech Silence Therapeutics for nearly €1 billion, gaining access to Divesiran, a candidate for polycythemia vera, a rare blood cancer. The deal, expected to close in Q1 2027, reflects continued M&A interest in rare disease assets. Financial terms and regulatory hurdles remain to be detailed.