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This acquisition is focused on the clinical-stage program ICT01 in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) targeting patients who are ineligible for intensive chemotherapy or targeted treatments. ICT01 is a first-in-class monoclonal antibody whose data from an ongoing trial showed a high treatment response, which could make it a new standard of care for acute myeloid leukemia, an aggressive blood cancer affecting older adults.

The transaction is expected to close by the end of Q1 2026, subject to fulfilment of customary closing conditions, including the required regulatory and governmental approvals under French and U.S. regulations.

Marc Castagnède, partner at A&O Shearman, said: “This transaction clearly demonstrates our ability to support clients in executing complex, strategic deals in highly specialized sectors such as life sciences. We are proud to have advised Ipsen on this landmark acquisition, which sits at the heart of biotech innovation and therapeutic advancement.”

The A&O Shearman team is being led by M&A partner Marc Castagnède with support from M&A senior associate Antoine Messent, and associate Fatima Ahamada.

Other members of the Paris team involved in the transaction include partner Olivier Picquerey and senior associate Antoine Tantaro on employment matters; partners Laëtitia Bénard and Charles Tuffreau, associate Manon Perret and consultant Marianne Delassaussé on IP matters; senior associate Clémence d’Almeida on antitrust matters; counsel Luc Lamblin and associate Charles-Hugo Lerebour on regulatory and FDI matters; partner Laurie-Anne Ancenys and associate Thomas Feigean on IT and data aspects; and partner Charles del Valle on tax matters.

Support was also provided by the A&O Shearman US corporate and antitrust teams.