Janssen Biotech has agreed to acquire NYU spinout Benevir for a total of up $1.04bn, including $140m in an upfront payment.

Benevir Biopharm, a US-based immunotherapy developer based on research at New York University (NYU), is set to be acquired by biotechnology firm Janssen Biotech for up to $1.04bn.

The amount includes an upfront cash payment of $140m, with another $900m dependent on certain predetermined milestones. The transaction is expected to conclude in the second quarter of 2018, following customary closing conditions.

Founded in 2011, Benevir is developing viral immunotherapies that target advanced tumours which do not respond to current treatments.…