CF-focused Vertex will buy Exonics and expand a collaboration with CRISPR Therapeutics, with plans to develop therapies for DMD and myotonic dystrophy type 1. Merck acquires TGFβ-focused Tilos, while Achaogen offloads most of its assets at auction.

Astellas/Chromocell pain therapy collaboration centers on New Jersey biotech's platform technology, which may solve the problem of reproducing Nav1.7 receptors for in vitro assays. Xoma signs preclinical immuno-oncology partnership with Novartis, dimming the focus on Phase III flop for gevokizumab.

Biopharma financing reached $15.1 billion, with record-breaking FOPO dollar volume making up close to $10 billion of the total; AbbVie topped the $66.5 billion M&A activity with its $20 billion buy of Pharmacyclics; and gastroenterology was one of the most highly partnered therapeutic areas.

Derived from Strategic Transactions, Informa’s premium source for tracking life sciences deal activity, the Dealmaking column is a survey of recent health care transactions listed by relevant industry segment – In Vitro Diagnostics, Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals, and Research/Analytical – and then categorized by type – Acquisition, Alliance, or Financing. This month’s column covers deals announced February 2015.