Eli Lilly & Company is in advanced discussions to acquire Ventyx Biosciences in a deal valued at more than USD 1 billion, according to reports citing people familiar with the matter. The acquisition talks have attracted strong investor interest, with Ventyx shares rising sharply following the news.

Ventyx Biosciences is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing innovative oral therapies for patients with autoimmune, inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Its pipeline includes small molecule programmes targeting a range of conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease and central nervous system disorders, and oral NLRP3 inhibitors that are being investigated in mid-stage clinical studies.

The potential acquisition is expected to bolster Lilly’s portfolio in inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, areas that align with the company’s broader strategic focus on diversifying its therapeutic offerings beyond its established franchises. Lilly’s pursuit of Ventyx also reflects industry trends in which large pharmaceutical companies seek to acquire innovative biotech firms to strengthen their pipelines and market position.

While neither company has publicly confirmed the transaction, sources say the deal could be announced imminently. In reaction to the reports, Ventyx’s stock experienced significant gains in both regular and after-hours trading.

If completed, the acquisition would represent a major investment by Lilly in late-stage biotechnology assets and may accelerate the development and commercialisation of Ventyx’s drug candidates for inflammatory and related conditions.