The German pharma’s top business development execs explain how they balance IO and targeted cancer therapy in their portfolio, views on major M&A and how to make deals during a global pandemic.

Two preclinical antibodies targeted at stromal biology-associated immuno-oncology processes from Canada’s Northern Biologics have been acquired by Boehringer Ingelheim, which is also to collaborate with Switzerland’s CDR-Life on the development of a preclinical antibody fragment aimed at geographic atrophy associated with age-related macular degeneration.

Derived from Strategic Transactions, Informa's premium source for tracking life-sciences deals, the bimonthly Pacts In Medtech feature highlights notable technology alliances, research and development partnerships and commercial collaborations. This edition covers industry pacts that were signed in September and October 2019.

Tender deadline for Roche acquisition of Spark pushed back to 30 October; 21.4% of Spark shares tendered so far. Vertex further diversifies with fourth deal of 2019 – an RNA-targeted collaboration with Ribometrix.