Eli Lilly to Buy Orna Therapeutics for $2.4 Billion to Boost In Vivo Cell Therapy
Eli Lilly will acquire Orna Therapeutics in a $2.4 billion buyout to integrate its circular RNA-based in vivo cell therapy platform into Lilly’s immunology and oncology research. The acquisition grants Lilly rights to Orna’s preclinical pipeline, positioning it among early adopters in the in vivo cell therapy market.
1. Transaction Overview
On February 9, 2026, Eli Lilly announced it will acquire Orna Therapeutics in a $2.4 billion cash transaction. The deal secures Orna’s expertise in developing circular RNA-based in vivo cell therapies.
2. Strategic Rationale
The acquisition provides Lilly access to Orna’s proprietary circular RNA platform, enabling direct reprogramming of cells within the body. This aligns with Lilly’s goal to expand its immunology and oncology offerings with innovative therapeutic modalities.
3. Pipeline Expansion
Orna’s preclinical candidates targeting autoimmune diseases and solid tumors will be incorporated into Lilly’s R&D pipeline. The move positions Lilly among the first major pharma companies to pursue in vivo cell therapy at scale.