Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche has agreed to acquire biotech firm 89bio for up to $3.5 billion, securing access to its late-stage fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) analogue, pegozafermin. This acquisition positions Roche strategically in the competitive metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) market. Pegozafermin is undergoing phase III trials and demonstrates potential to reduce liver fibrosis and inflammation. The deal includes an upfront payment of $2.4 billion and contingent milestone-based payments, signaling Roche's commitment to expanding treatments for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.