In order to strengthen its CNS pipeline and create critical mass, Biotie Therapies has agreed to acquire Italian Newron Pharmaceuticals in an all-stock deal that is valued at €45 M (US$61 M), including Contingent Value Rights. With the acquisition, Biotie will gain Newron’s Phase III Parkinson’s disease drug candidate safinamide, which is partnered with Merck Serono, as well as a number of early-stage assets. Newron has been struggling since the Phase IIb/III failure of its key pipeline drug ralfinamide in neuropathic pain and the company effectively put itself up for sale earlier in 2011.