UK’s Piramed to be acquired by Roche

A closely-held UK company with an early-stage oncology programme has reached agreement to be acquired by Roche for up to $175 million. The deal, which was announced on 15 April 2008, includes an upfront cash payment of $160 million plus a milestone payment of $15 million which is due upon the start of Phase 2 trials of its  oncology programme.