Heat Biologics, Inc. (NASDAQ: HTBX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class therapies to modulate the immune system, has acquired Elusys Therapuetics.

Elusys is a commercial-stage biodefense firm and the manufacturer of Anthim Injection. Following the deal, Elusys will merge into a wholly owned subsidiary of Heat. The deal is intended to enhance Heat’s immunotherapy portfolio and position the company as a leader in biodefense.

Elusys additionally has received over $350 billion in R&D contracts and procurement orders from BARDA, ASPR, NIAID and DOD. The firm has supplied Anthim to the US Strategic National Stockpile, the government’s repository of critical medical supplies for biowarfare preparedness.

“Anthrax represents one of the most significant biological warfare threats facing our country and Elusys has established a successful track record in collaborating with U.S. government agencies including BARDA, NIH, SNS and DOD,” commented Jeff Wolf, Heat CEO. “Following this acquisition, we look forward to further strengthening the ongoing collaboration with the U.S. government. Our goal is to expand global sales and leverage our capabilities to supply ANTHIM worldwide.”

Elusys was advised by RBC Capital Markets, LLC