BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Idera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced that they have signed a definitive merger agreement to form a new enterprise focused on the development and commercialization of medicines to serve more patients suffering from rare diseases. The combined company will be renamed upon closing and will be led by Vincent Milano, CEO of Idera, who will also serve as a member of the Board. BioCryst Chairman, Robert Ingram, will be Chairman of the Board of the combined company and BioCryst CEO Jon P. Stonehouse will serve as a member of the Board of Directors.

In addition to Mr. Milano's role as CEO of the combined company, Dan Soland will join the combined company and will serve in the role of Chief Operating Officer.