Thermo Fisher Set to Acquire Molecular Diagnostics Maker Mesa Biotech

Thermo Fisher has announced that it has reached a definitive agreement to purchase molecular diagnostics developer Mesa Biotech for approximately $450 million.

The acquisition of the San Diego, Calif., company includes a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based rapid test platform that has received Emergency Use Authorization for the SARS-CoV-2 virus and 510(k) marketing clearance for influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and Strep A.

The rapid PCR-based test is “highly complementary to our existing offering and will further help us meet the continuing demand for COVID-related testing while we work to rapidly scale and develop point-of care tests for other infectious diseases in the future,” said Mark Stevenson, Thermo Fisher’s chief operating officer. The acquisition is expected to be finalized in the first quarter of 2021.