Eli Lilly agreed to acquire Ventyx Biosciences for about $1.2 billion in cash, securing clinical-stage NLRP3 inhibitors that Lilly says expand its inflammation franchise. The deal values Ventyx at $14 per share and comes after data showed VTX3232 reduced inflammatory biomarkers and improved metabolic signals in obesity patients. Lilly named VTX3232 as a strategic fit for cardiometabolic, neurologic and autoimmune indications. The acquisition delivers an oral NLRP3 program that could complement Lilly’s metabolic portfolio centered on GLP-1 and related agents. Lilly’s chief science and product officer framed the buy as an expansion into oral inflammation drugs, citing the role of inflammation across chronic diseases. Financial terms include the $1.2 billion purchase price and immediate integration planning. For drug developers, the transaction signals Big Pharma appetite for oral small-molecule immune modulators and validates NLRP3 as a multisystem target. Companies with early NLRP3 or inflammasome-stage assets may see heightened partner interest or acquisition pressure as large-cap players move to round out metabolic and neurodegenerative pipelines.