Vividion is focused on the identification of drug candidates for proteins that are considered undruggable. The company's chemoproteomic screening platform can identify previously unknown binding pockets on well-validated protein targets by screening chemical probes against the entire human proteome to assess selectivity.

Vividion's platform produces a variety of small molecule therapies across many indications, including oncology and immunology. The company's lead programs for precision oncology and immunology targets comprise a transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor) antagonist for the potential treatment of Nrf2 mutant cancers, as well as Nrf activators for various inflammatory diseases such as irritable bowel disease, among other preclinical programs.

Once the transaction closes in the third quarter, Bayer will own the full rights to Vividion's discovery platform that consists of three integrated components: a novel chemoproteomic screening technology, an integrated data portal, and a proprietary chemistry library. Vividion will continue to operate as an independent organization on an arm's length basis.

The acquisition strengthens Bayer's small molecule capabilities, the firm said.