Boston Scientific Acquires Israeli Startup SoniVie for $360 Million - Blood Pressure Treatment

SoniVie is known for its development of TIVUS, an innovative device designed to treat resistant high blood pressure (also known as refractory hypertension) that does not respond to traditional drug treatments. The device uses ultrasound technology to treat the nerves surrounding blood vessels in the kidney area to help dilate them and reduce blood pressure.

While the TIVUS system has not yet received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it is a promising technology, and treatments utilizing nerve burning around the kidneys are gaining momentum globally. Two competing renal denervation (RDN) systems have already received FDA approval, and in 2024, the treatment was even included under federal Medicare insurance.

Positive Trial Results Boost Investor Confidence

SoniVie published positive results from a pilot trial last year, which has reduced the risk for Boston Scientific. The company has now begun a critical trial in its pursuit of FDA approval, marking a pivotal step in the commercialization of the device.

Founded in 2014, SoniVie has raised approximately $70 million in total funding to date. The company emerged from Tel Aviv University's "Ramot" knowledge commercialization company. Murray Arkin's AccelMed fund was the first investor to help establish the company and has continued to support it through subsequent rounds of financing. In early 2023, Boston Scientific participated in SoniVie's latest fundraising round, which raised $60 million. Other investors in the company are primarily foreign entities.

SoniVie’s Growing Workforce and Future Plans

The company currently employs around 30 people, with half of the workforce based in Israel and the remainder in the U.S., where most of the management team is located. Thomas Zambali serves as the CEO of SoniVie, with Israeli Or Shabtai serving as the company's Vice President of Development.

With Boston Scientific’s acquisition, SoniVie is poised to accelerate its development and expand its global reach, potentially revolutionizing the treatment of resistant high blood pressure in patients worldwide.