UCB moved deeper into epilepsy with its latest acquisition, paying up to $1.15 billion for Neurona Therapeutics. The deal includes a $650 million upfront payment and additional milestone tranches, according to the coverage of 2026 neuro-focused transactions. Neurona’s lead asset is NRTX-1001, an epilepsy program carried through the company’s pipeline as investors continue to reward late-stage neuro franchises with differentiated mechanisms. The acquisition follows multiple billion-dollar buyouts across neurological disease areas during the year. The size and structure of the transaction signal sustained big-pharma demand for assets that can accelerate time-to-clinic in CNS disorders, particularly where large patient populations and unmet need intersect.