AbbVie Acquires Capstan Therapeutics for $2.1B, Gaining In Vivo CAR-T Platform Targeting Autoimmune Diseases
AbbVie announced a definitive agreement to acquire Capstan Therapeutics for up to $2.1 billion in cash, gaining access to its targeted lipid nanoparticle (tLNP) platform for in vivo cell engineering and its lead candidate, CPTX2309. The platform enables mRNA delivery directly to CD8+ T cells to induce transient anti-CD19 CAR expression in vivo, aiming to deplete B cells and reset immune function in B cell-mediated autoimmune diseases.
Capstan Therapeutics Team; Source: CapstanTx
CPTX2309 is in Phase 1 development and does not require lymphodepletion or ex vivo cell manipulation. It uses Capstan’s hepatic de-targeting technology to selectively reprogram CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, which then act to eliminate autoreactive B cells in tissues and peripheral blood. This mechanism is intended to enable immune system rebalancing through depletion of pathogenic memory B cells and reconstitution with naïve populations.
Founded in 2021, Capstan previously raised a $175M Series B in 2024 to advance its CellSeeker platform. The company’s targeted LNP system uses antibody-conjugated nanoparticles to deliver RNA payloads for in vivo cell programming.
The transaction is subject to regulatory review under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act. Capstan was advised by Centerview Partners and Cooley LLP. AbbVie did not disclose timelines for regulatory or commercial milestones related to CPTX2309.
Topics: Startups & Deals
