Asahi Kasei has signed a definitive agreement to acquire all of the issued shares of Aicuris Anti-infective Cures AG for approximately €780 million (US$920 million).[1][2] The acquisition will be made through Veloxis Pharmaceuticals' US subsidiary and is intended to expand the portfolio of therapies for serious viral infections in immunocompromised patients, such as those after stem cell or organ transplants.[1][2] Aicuris, based in Wuppertal, Germany, specializes in antiviral drugs for people with weakened immune systems.[1][2] The main product PREVYMIS (sold by MSD) is used to prevent cytomegalovirus infection in transplant patients.[2] The late-stage clinical development candidate pritelivir met the primary endpoint in a global phase 3 study in refractory herpes simplex virus infections and demonstrated statistical superiority over physician's choice in immunocompromised patients.[2] Another candidate, AIC468, is an antisense oligonucleotide for the treatment of BK virus infections.[2] The transaction should be completed in the first half of 2026, subject to compliance with legal requirements.[1][2]