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In a move that’s set to reshape the landscape of biotech innovation, Illumina Inc. announced Monday it will acquire proteomics pioneer SomaLogic from its parent, Standard BioTools, in a bold deal worth up to $425 million. The acquisition is expected to amplify Illumina’s reach in the proteomics market and drive its multiomics roadmap into overdrive.

The agreement includes $350 million in upfront cash, with an additional $75 million tied to near-term performance milestones and royalties, according to statements released by both companies.

A High-Tech Fusion: From Molecules to Markets

Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, SomaLogic specializes in protein biomarker discovery and diagnostics. Its labs, offices, and manufacturing space are all part of the acquisition. The company’s sophisticated aptamer-based affinity proteomics platform will be folded into Illumina’s robust sequencing and software arsenal.

"This deal accelerates our vision," said Illumina CEO Jacob Thaysen. "We’ve been working closely with SomaLogic for over three years. Together, we can supercharge the development of cutting-edge biomarker tools and disease profiling technologies."

SomaLogic’s SomaScan Proteomics Assay, already integrated into Illumina’s next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms through a 2021 co-development agreement, will now become a central part of Illumina’s offering — deepening the biotech giant’s play in the high-plex proteomics space.

Strategic Exit: Standard BioTools Cashes Out, But Stays Connected

This acquisition is also a milestone for Standard BioTools, which bought SomaLogic just 18 months ago. CEO Michael Egholm said the company successfully restructured and elevated SomaLogic into a category leader in proteomics.

“The transaction reflects the transformation we've achieved,” said Egholm. “This deal lets us participate in SomaLogic's future upside while reallocating resources strategically.”

Proteomics Meets Sequencing: A Scientific Power Play

Proteomics, the study of proteins and their functions within biological systems, is considered the next frontier in precision medicine. By combining SomaLogic’s technology with Illumina’s NGS capabilities, the deal is poised to slash the time and cost of research, making disease diagnostics faster, more accurate, and scalable.

Illumina’s multiomics strategy — aimed at integrating genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data — took center stage in 2024, and this acquisition cements its seriousness in that arena.

Closing Timeline and Legal Heavyweights Behind the Deal

The acquisition is expected to close in the first half of 2026, pending standard regulatory approvals. Until then, both companies will operate independently.

Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP led Illumina’s legal team, with partners Ting Chen and Daniel Cerqueira steering M&A, supported by top-tier counsel across tax, antitrust, IP, environmental, and executive compensation disciplines. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC acted as Illumina’s financial adviser.

On the other side, Freshfields LLP and Richards, Layton & Finger PC advised Standard BioTools, with financial advice provided by Centerview Partners LLC, backed by legal guidance from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP.