Amgen Acquires Dark Blue Therapeutics to Enhance Oncology Portfolio and Combat Leukemia

### Amgen's Strategic Acquisition of Dark Blue Therapeutics: A Leap Forward in Oncology

Amgen Inc. announces its acquisition of Dark Blue Therapeutics, a pivotal move aimed at enhancing its oncology portfolio. The deal, valued at up to $840 million, includes both upfront payments and potential future milestones. Dark Blue Therapeutics, based in Oxford, England, is recognized for its innovative approach to developing precision oncology medicines. Its lead candidate, DBT 3757, is a first-in-class therapy designed to target Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), currently progressing through IND-enabling studies. This acquisition aligns seamlessly with Amgen’s vision of addressing significant unmet medical needs and advancing treatment options for patients battling various forms of cancer.

The scientific foundation of Dark Blue's investigational therapy is rooted in extensive research conducted at Oxford University and has been supported by major investors, including Bristol Myers Squibb and Evotec. DBT 3757 stands out due to its mechanism of action, which involves degrading MLLT 1/3 proteins within the Super Elongation Complex, demonstrating substantial anti-cancer efficacy across multiple leukemia models. Early studies suggest that DBT 3757 could provide strong and durable responses as a monotherapy while maintaining a favorable safety profile that makes it suitable for combination therapies. This innovative strategy positions Amgen to potentially redefine treatment paradigms for patients who have not responded to existing therapies.

Jay Bradner, M.D., Amgen’s executive vice president of Research and Development, emphasizes the urgent need for new therapeutic mechanisms in the fight against AML, suggesting that the acquisition not only strengthens Amgen's research capabilities but also enhances its commitment to targeted protein degradation. Alastair MacKinnon, CEO of Dark Blue Therapeutics, expresses confidence in Amgen's ability to accelerate the development of DBT 3757, envisioning improved outcomes for patients facing challenging cancer diagnoses. By integrating Dark Blue's advanced capabilities, Amgen is set to leverage its extensive experience in drug development and commercialization to bring forth vital new therapies that can transform the landscape of oncology treatment.

In addition to the acquisition, Amgen continues to focus on expanding its oncology portfolio, which is critical in a competitive marketplace. This strategic move reflects Amgen's broader commitment to invest in innovative biotech firms that complement its mission of providing advanced healthcare solutions. As the biotechnology sector evolves, such acquisitions are crucial for maintaining a robust pipeline and addressing the pressing needs of cancer patients.

Overall, Amgen's acquisition of Dark Blue Therapeutics is a significant development that underscores its dedication to pioneering effective cancer therapies and improving patient care. The integration of Dark Blue’s innovative research aligns with Amgen’s objectives and positions the company strategically for future advancements in oncology.