Epigenetic modifiers are targeting a widening range of indications as growing knowledge of the underlying biology enables improved agents and therapeutic strategies. Nonetheless, issues of selectivity, toxicity, and finding adequate biomarkers still prevent the field from reaching its full potential.

Eight $1bn+ alliances were penned in July. Topping the list was a potential $2.8bn deal under which Alnylam granted Roche exclusive global rights outside the US to develop and commercialize its Phase II hypertension candidate zilebesiran. The companies will co-develop zilebesiran in the US.

During Q2, biopharma merger and acquisition deal value reached $29bn and drew in $36.8bn in potential deal value from alliances. Device company M&A values reached $988m, while in vitro diagnostics and research tools players’ M&A activity totaled $450m.