Sanofi takeout of Provention puts disease interception to the commercial test

Sanofi’s proposed $2.9 billion acquisition of Provention puts disease interception in the spotlight, and the pharma’s launch of Provention’s Tzield should answer questions about whether the diagnostic and reimbursement infrastructure is prepared to support early intervention in diabetes and possibly other diseases.

Sanofi (Euronext:SAN; NASDAQ:SNY) said it agreed to acquire Provention Bio Inc. (NASDAQ:PRVB) for $25 per share, a 273% premium over the biotech’s $6.70 close on Friday. The acquisition price represents a 130% premium over the stock’s 52-week high on Jan. 3...