Strategic Expansion Into RNA Therapeutics

Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) announced it will acquire Orbital Therapeutics, a privately held RNA biotech firm, for $1.5 billion in cash, expanding its next-generation RNA and cell therapy capabilities.

The acquisition gives BMY access to Orbital’s proprietary RNA platform, which combines circular and linear RNA engineering, advanced lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery, and AI-driven molecular design to create programmable, durable RNA-based therapies.

Pipeline Highlights

Orbital’s lead preclinical candidate, OTX-201, is an RNA immunotherapy targeting autoimmune diseases by reprogramming immune B cells to reset immune system function.

Beyond OTX-201, Orbital’s RNA platform enables scalable development across a wide range of indications — including autoimmune disorders, oncology, and genetic diseases — through in vivo cellular reprogramming.

BMY Strengthens Its Cell Therapy Portfolio

The deal will integrate Orbital’s technology into Bristol Myers Squibb’s Cell Therapy Organization, enhancing its capabilities in both RNA therapeutics and CAR T-cell therapy manufacturing.

“With the acquisition of Orbital Therapeutics and its next-generation RNA platform, we have an incredible opportunity to make CAR T-cell therapy more efficient and accessible to more patients,” said Lynelle B. Hoch, President of Cell Therapy, Bristol Myers Squibb.

Strategic Context

This acquisition underscores BMY’s continued push into genomic and immunotherapy innovation, following earlier strategic deals in cell and gene therapy, as it seeks to strengthen its pipeline and offset losses from patent expirations in traditional drugs.

Industry Implications

The move positions Bristol Myers alongside peers like Pfizer (PFE), Moderna (MRNA), and Gilead (GILD), all investing heavily in next-gen RNA technologies and delivery platforms.