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From Startup to $2B+ Exit: Lessons from Capstan’s Sale to AbbVie

June 22, 2026
30DE
Type: Breakout Session
Focus Area: Cell and Gene Therapy and Genome Editing
This session will feature a Fireside Chat between the former CEO of Capstan Therapeutics, as they share firsthand experience leading Capstan through one of the marquee M&A deals of 2025, a $2B+ acquisition by Abbvie, as well as an M&A Partner and a Life Sciences Partner from Cooley. The conversation will explore the business and scientific factors that drive value in cell therapy, the strategic decisions behind building a company for acquisition, and the lessons learned from navigating a high-profile transaction. Attendees will gain unique insights into the evolving landscape of cell therapy M&A, including deal structuring, partnering strategies, and what it takes to achieve global impact in a rapidly advancing field.
Moderator
Charity Williams
Partner
Cooley LLP
Speakers
Rama Padmanabhan
Partner
Cooley LLP
Laura Shawver
Former CEO and President of Capstan Therapeutics
Capstan Therapeutics (former)

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