Merck Strengthens 3D Cell Culture with HUB Organoids Acquisition

• Merck has announced plans to acquire HUB Organoids Holding B.V., a pioneer in organoid technology, to bolster its next-generation biology portfolio.

• The transaction, expected to close in December 2024, aims to accelerate drug development while supporting sustainability and inclusion goals.

Merck, a science and technology company, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire HUB Organoids Holding B.V., a Netherlands-based pioneer in organoid technology. The acquisition aims to enhance Merck’s expertise in next-generation biology and drug discovery. Terms of the deal have not been disclosed, and the transaction is anticipated to close by the end of December 2024.

Organoids, which mimic the functionality of human organs, present transformative opportunities in drug development. They enable faster research, improve disease modelling in diverse populations, and reduce reliance on animal testing. Jean-Charles Wirth, Head of Science & Lab Solutions at Merck, stated, “Organoids offer critical insights into biologic systems. We look forward to making it faster and easier for scientists to get from samples to solutions.”

HUB brings an extensive patent portfolio and a comprehensive service offering, including model generation and high-throughput screening. This acquisition complements Merck’s existing cell culture technologies, enabling researchers to identify potential clinical candidates in patient-relevant in vitro systems. Robert Vries, CEO of HUB Organoids, emphasised that Merck’s resources will significantly amplify HUB’s global impact.

Merck noted that organoid technology aligns with its sustainability and inclusion goals by offering environmentally friendly research alternatives and addressing underrepresented patient populations in clinical studies.