Cube Biotech expands membrane protein capabilities through IBA Lifesciences acquisition
Monheim-based Cube Biotech has acquired IBA Lifesciences in a strategic transaction that combines two significant players in protein research and production technologies. The acquisition, announced on 13 January 2025, creates an entity with enhanced capabilities in membrane protein production, purification, and stabilisation technologies.
Technological integration
The acquisition merges Cube Biotech’s NativeMP platform for membrane protein stabilisation with IBA Lifesciences’ Strep-tag affinity technology, creating an expanded toolkit for researchers working on challenging drug targets. This technological integration is particularly significant for research institutions and pharmaceutical companies working on membrane protein-based drug discovery programmes.
The combined entity aims to streamline the protein research workflow by integrating complementary technologies. This merger is especially relevant for researchers working with G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and other membrane proteins that have historically proved challenging to stabilise and purify for structural studies.
Market implications and research applications
The transaction represents a significant development in the life sciences tools sector, particularly in the protein research segment. The acquisition addresses the growing demand for sophisticated protein handling technologies in drug discovery and structural biology research.
Commenting on the acquisition, CEO of Cube Biotech, Didier Dargent, said: “This acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for both companies. Together, we will harness our collective expertise to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the life sciences and enable researchers to make groundbreaking discoveries.”
IBA Lifesciences’ CEO, Mike Rothe, emphasised the technological synergy: “The fusion of our technologies and talents creates an outstanding foundation for innovation. Our combined efforts will benefit our customers and strengthen our position as leaders in the biotechnology market.”
The acquisition is expected to accelerate research and development in several key areas:
1. Enhanced protein stabilisation methodologies for structural biology studies
2. Advanced purification technologies for membrane protein research
3. Integrated workflows for protein characterisation and analysis
4. Customisable solutions for pharmaceutical and academic research applications.
The combined entity will maintain operations in both Monheim and Göttingen, Germany, whilst expanding its distribution network across North America, Europe, and Asia. This geographical expansion aims to provide improved access to these advanced protein research tools for the global scientific community.
The transaction builds upon Cube Biotech’s strategic development since its acquisition by healthcare investment firm ARCHIMED in 2021.
