SC14D9C

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

SCHEDULE 14D-9

(Rule 14d-101)

Solicitation/Recommendation Statement

Under Section 14(d)(4) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Imago BioSciences, Inc.

(Name of Subject Company)

Imago BioSciences, Inc.

(Name of Persons Filing Statement)

Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share

(Title of Class of Securities)

45250K107

(CUSIP Number of Class of Securities)

Hugh Y. Rienhoff, Jr., M.D.

Chief Executive Officer

303 Twin Dolphin Drive, 6th Floor

Redwood City, California 94065

(415) 529-5055

(Name, address, and telephone numbers of person authorized to receive notices and communications

on behalf of the persons filing statement)

With copies to:

Benjamin A. Potter

Julia A. Thompson

Shagufa R. Hossain

Latham & Watkins LLP

140 Scott Drive

Menlo Park, California 94025

(650) 328-4600

☒ Check the box if the filing relates solely to preliminary communications made before the commencement of a tender offer.

This Schedule 14D-9 filing relates solely to preliminary communications made before the commencement of a planned tender offer (the “Offer”) by M-Inspire Merger Sub, Inc. (“Purchaser”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC (“Parent”), for all of the outstanding shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share of Imago BioSciences, Inc. (the “Company”), to be commenced pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated November 19, 2022, among the Company, Parent and Purchaser. If successful, the Offer will be followed by a merger of Purchaser with and into the Company (the “Merger”).

This Schedule 14D-9 filing consists of the following documents relating to the proposed Offer and Merger:

•  Exhibit 99.1:	Joint Press Release, dated November 21, 2022
•  Exhibit 99.2:	Letter to Investors, first used on November 21, 2022
•  Exhibit 99.3:	Letter to Employees, first used on November 21, 2022
•  Exhibit 99.4:	Letter to Clinical Investigators, first used on November 21, 2022
•  Exhibit 99.5:	Letter to Vendors and Service Providers, first used on November 21, 2022
•  Exhibit 99.6:	Letter to Scientific Collaborators, first used on November 21, 2022
•  Exhibit 99.7:	Imago Social Media Communications, posted on November 21, 2022

Notice to Investors and Security Holders

The tender offer referred to in this communication has not yet commenced. The description contained in this communication is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities, nor is it a substitute for the tender offer materials that Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC (together with its subsidiaries, “Merck”) will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The solicitation and offer to buy shares of common stock (the “Shares”) of Imago BioSciences, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, “Imago”) will only be made pursuant to an offer to purchase and related tender offer materials. At the time the planned tender offer is commenced, Merck will file a tender offer statement on Schedule TO and thereafter Imago will file a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC with respect to the Offer. THE TENDER OFFER MATERIALS (INCLUDING AN OFFER TO PURCHASE, A RELATED LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL AND CERTAIN OTHER OFFER DOCUMENTS) AND THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14D-9 WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. ANY HOLDERS OF SHARES ARE URGED TO READ THESE DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION THAT HOLDERS SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING ANY DECISION REGARDING TENDERING THEIR SHARES. The offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and the solicitation/recommendation statement will be made available for free at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Additional copies may be obtained for free by contacting Imago. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Imago will be available free of charge on Imago’s internet website at https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings or by contacting Imago’s investor relations contact at Laurence@gilmartinir.com. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Merck can be obtained, when filed, free of charge by directing a request to the Information Agent for the tender offer which will be named in the tender offer materials.

In addition to the offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and certain other tender offer documents to be filed by Merck, as well as the solicitation/recommendation statement to be filed by Imago, Imago will continue to file annual, quarterly and current reports with the SEC. Imago’s filings with the SEC are available to the public from commercial document-retrieval services and at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.

Forward Looking Statements of Imago BioSciences

The information contained in this communication is as of November 21, 2022. Imago assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this communication as the result of new information or future events or developments, except as may be required by law.

This communication contains forward-looking information related to Imago and the proposed acquisition of Imago that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Forward-looking statements in this communication include, among other things, statements about the potential benefits of the proposed acquisition; the parties’ ability to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the Offer and the other conditions to the consummation of the acquisition; statements about the expected timetable for completing the transaction; Imago’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, the financial condition, results of operations and business of Imago, Imago’s product pipeline and the anticipated timing of closing of the proposed acquisition.

Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, uncertainties as to the timing of the Offer and the subsequent Merger; risks related to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to closing the proposed acquisition (including the failure to obtain necessary regulatory approvals) in the anticipated timeframe or at all; uncertainties as to how many of Imago’s stockholders will tender their Shares into the Offer and the possibility that the acquisition does not close; the possibility that competing offers or acquisition proposals may be made; risks related to obtaining the requisite consents to the acquisition, including, without limitation, the timing (including possible delays) and receipt of clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended; disruption from the transaction making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; significant transaction costs; Imago’s limited operating history and lack of products for commercial sale; Imago’s dependence on development, regulatory approval and commercialization of its product candidates; difficulties in enrolling patients and risks of substantial delays in its clinical trials; Imago’s minimal control over product candidates in investigator-initiated clinical trials; uncertainties in the cost and outcomes of its clinical studies and the acceptance for presentation at medical meetings of data from such clinical studies; uncertainties in the regulatory review and approval of Imago’s product candidates if its pivotal studies are positive; potentially material changes to the interim, top-line and preliminary data from its clinical trials; potential undesirable effects of Imago’s product candidates and safety or supply issues, in each case with respect to its product candidates alone or in combination with other compounds or products; Imago’s potential inability to obtain and maintain orphan drug designation and delays in approvals despite FDA Fast Track designation for expedited review; risks related to clinical trials outside of the United States; Imago’s need to manufacture adequate supplies, including multiple batches of Bomedemstat, using a commercial current Good Manufacturing Practice; risks related to information technology system and cybersecurity; risks related to misconduct of Imago’s employees and independent contractors; risks related to hazardous materials and Imago’s compliance with environmental laws and regulations; risks related to litigation and other claims; risks related to reliance on third parties to conduct and support preclinical studies and clinical trials, and to manufacture Imago’s product candidates; risks related to third-party intellectual property infringement claims and Imago’s ability to protect its own intellectual property; and risks related to governmental policies and regulations, including with respect to drug prices and reimbursement, and changes thereof.

Further descriptions of risks and uncertainties relating to Imago can be found in Imago’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2022, its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and subsequent Current Reports on Form 8 K, all of which are filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov and https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings.

These forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and assessments made by Imago in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, business strategies, operating environment, future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. Although it is believed that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements in this communication are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct and persons reading this communication are therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as at the date of this communication.

Forward-Looking Statement of Merck

This communication includes statements that are not statements of historical fact, or “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to Merck’s proposed acquisition of Imago. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the ability of Merck and Imago to complete the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the parties’ ability to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the offer contemplated thereby and the other conditions set forth in the merger agreement, statements about the expected timetable for completing the transaction, Merck’s and Imago’s beliefs and expectations and statements about the benefits sought to be achieved in Merck’s proposed acquisition of Imago, the potential effects of the acquisition on both Merck and Imago, the possibility of any termination of the merger agreement, as well as the expected benefits and success of Imago’s product candidates. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of Merck’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no guarantees that the conditions to the closing of the proposed transaction will be satisfied on the expected timetable or at all, with respect to pipeline products that the products will receive the necessary regulatory approvals or that they will prove to be commercially successful. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, uncertainties as to the timing of the offer and the subsequent merger; uncertainties as to how many of Imago’s stockholders will tender their shares in the offer; the risk that competing offers or acquisition proposals will be made; the possibility that various conditions to the consummation of the merger and the offer contemplated thereby may not be satisfied or waived; the effects of disruption from the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement and the impact of the announcement and pendency of the transactions on Imago’s business; the risk that stockholder litigation in connection with the offer or the merger may result in significant costs of defense, indemnification and liability; general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of the global outbreak of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19); the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; Merck’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of Merck’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.

Merck undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in Merck & Co., Inc.’s 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K and its other filings with the SEC available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov).

EX-99.1

Exhibit 99.1

News Release

Merck to Acquire Imago BioSciences, Inc.

Acquisition expands Merck’s growing hematology portfolio

RAHWAY, N.J., and SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., November 21, 2022—Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, and Imago BioSciences, Inc. (“Imago”) (Nasdaq: IMGO) today announced that the companies have entered into a definitive agreement under which Merck, through a subsidiary, will acquire Imago for $36.00 per share in cash for an approximate total equity value of $1.35 billion.

“We continue to invest in our pipeline with a focus on applying our unique capabilities to unlock the value of breakthrough science for the patients we serve,” said Robert M. Davis, president and chief executive officer, Merck. “This acquisition of Imago augments our pipeline and strengthens our presence in the growing field of hematology.”

Imago is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company developing new medicines for the treatment of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) and other bone marrow diseases. Imago’s lead candidate bomedemstat (IMG-7289), an investigational orally available lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) inhibitor, is currently being evaluated in multiple Phase 2 clinical trials for the treatment of essential thrombocythemia (ET), myelofibrosis (MF), and polycythemia vera (PV), in addition to other indications.

“This milestone is a testament to more than a decade of pioneering research by Imago scientists and the entire Imago team’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of patients,” said Dr. Hugh Y. Rienhoff, Jr., Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Imago BioSciences. “This agreement leverages Merck’s industry-leading clinical development expertise to maximize the therapeutic potential of bomedemstat while providing important value for shareholders. I would also like to acknowledge with gratitude the early investors — Blackstone Life Sciences, Frazier Healthcare, Omega Funds, Amgen Ventures, and MRL Ventures Fund who placed their faith in Imago beginning in 2014, as well as the outstanding study investigators and their patients who have made the clinical development of bomedemstat possible.”

“Evidence indicates that LSD1 plays an important role in the maturation of blood cells in the bone marrow,” said Dr. Dean Y. Li, president, Merck Research Laboratories. “We look forward to working with the Imago team to further investigate the potential of bomedemstat for patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms.”

Under the terms of the acquisition agreement, Merck, through a subsidiary, will initiate a tender offer to acquire all outstanding shares of Imago. The closing of the tender offer will be subject to certain conditions, including the tender of shares representing at least a majority of the total number of Imago’s outstanding shares, the expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act and other customary conditions. Upon the successful completion of the tender offer, Merck’s acquisition subsidiary will be merged into Imago, and any remaining shares of common stock of Imago will be canceled and converted into the right to receive the same $36 per share price payable in the tender offer. The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2023.

Myeloproliferative neoplasms

Myeloproliferative neoplasms are a group of diseases of the bone marrow characterized by excessive production of red blood cells, platelets, or certain white blood cells. Myeloproliferative neoplasms progress over time as the number of extra cells build up in the blood and/or bone marrow. This may lead to bleeding problems, anemia, infection, fatigue, thrombosis or other signs and symptoms. Certain myeloproliferative neoplasms may become acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Myeloproliferative neoplasms include chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), polycythemia vera, primary myelofibrosis, essential thrombocythemia, chronic neutrophilic leukemia, and chronic eosinophilic leukemia.

About lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1)

LSD1, also called KDM1A, discovered in 2004, is a member of a group of epigenetic proteins that regulate gene expression through chemical modifications of proteins, RNA and DNA. LSD1 regulates the maturation of bone marrow stem cells and is essential for the differentiation of progenitor cells into mature megakaryocytes and granulocytes and production of blood cells.

Given the role that LSD1 plays in the function of malignant blood cells, targeting LSD1 for the treatment of blood cancers offers a new mechanism for the treatment of diseases associated with high morbidity and mortality.

Important Information About the Tender Offer

The tender offer described in this press release has not yet commenced. This press release is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any shares of the common stock of Imago or any other securities, nor is it a substitute for the tender offer materials described herein. At the time the planned tender offer is commenced, a tender offer statement on Schedule (TO), including an offer to purchase, a letter of transmittal and related documents, will be filed by Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC (“Merck”) and M-Inspire Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Merck, with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), and a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 will be filed by Imago with the SEC. The offer to purchase shares of common stock of Imago will only be made pursuant to the offer to purchase, the letter of transmittal and related documents filed as a part of the Schedule TO.

INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ BOTH THE TENDER OFFER MATERIALS CAREFULLY (INCLUDING AN OFFER TO PURCHASE, A RELATED LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL AND CERTAIN OTHER TENDER OFFER DOCUMENTS) AND THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14D-9 REGARDING THE OFFER, AS THEY MAY BE AMENDED FROM TIME TO TIME, WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION THAT INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING ANY DECISION REGARDING TENDERING THEIR SECURITIES.

Investors and security holders may obtain a free copy of the offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal, certain other tender offer documents and the solicitation/recommendation Statement (when available) and other documents filed with the SEC at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov or by directing such requests to the Information Agent for the tender offer, which will be named in the tender offer statement. In addition, Merck and Imago will file annual, quarterly and current reports and other information with the SEC, which are

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available to the public from commercial document-retrieval services and at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Merck may be obtained at no charge on Merck’s internet website at www.merck.com or by contacting Merck at 126 East Lincoln Avenue P.O. Box 2000 Rahway, NJ 07065 USA, or (908) 740-4000. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Imago may be obtained at no charge on Imago’s internet website at https://imagobio.com/ or by contacting Imago at 303 Twin Dolphin Drive 6^th Floor, Redwood City, CA 94065 or (415) 529 5055.

Advisors

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC acted as financial advisor to Merck in this transaction and Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP as its legal advisors. Centerview Partners LLC acted as financial advisor to Imago and Latham and Watkins LLP as its legal advisors.

About Imago BioSciences

Imago BioSciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company discovering and developing novel small molecule product candidates that target lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1), an enzyme that plays a central role in the production of blood cells in the bone marrow. Imago is focused on improving the quality and length of life for patients with cancer and bone marrow diseases. Bomedemstat, an orally available, small molecule inhibitor of LSD1, is the lead product candidate discovered by Imago for the treatment of certain myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), a family of related, chronic cancers of the bone marrow. Imago is evaluating Bomedemstat as a potentially disease-modifying therapy in two Phase 2 clinical trials for the treatment of essential thrombocythemia (NCT04254978) and myelofibrosis (NCT03136185). Bomedemstat has U.S. FDA Orphan Drug and Fast Track Designation for the treatment of ET and MF, European Medicines Agency (EMA) Orphan Designation for the treatment of ET and MF, and PRIority MEdicines (PRIME) Designation by the EMA for the treatment of MF. Imago is based in Redwood City, California. To learn more, visit www.imagobio.com, www.myelofibrosisclinicalstudy.com, www.etclinicalstudy.com and follow us on Twitter @ImagoBioRx, Facebook and LinkedIn.

About Merck

At Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, we are unified around our purpose: We use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, we have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines. We aspire to be the premier research-intensive biopharmaceutical company in the world—and today, we are at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. We foster a diverse and inclusive global workforce and operate responsibly every day to enable a safe, sustainable and healthy future for all people and communities. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on Twitter. Facebook. Instagram. YouTube and Linkedln.

Forward-Looking Statement of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA

This news release of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA includes statements that are not statements of historical fact, or “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to Merck’s proposed acquisition of Imago. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the ability of Merck and Imago to complete the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, including the parties’ ability to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the offer contemplated thereby and the other conditions set forth in the merger agreement, statements about the expected timetable for completing the transaction, Merck’s and Imago’s beliefs and expectations and statements about the benefits sought to be achieved in Merck’s

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proposed acquisition of Imago, the potential effects of the acquisition on both Merck and Imago, the possibility of any termination of the merger agreement, as well as the expected benefits and success of Imago’s product candidates. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of Merck’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no guarantees that the conditions to the closing of the proposed transaction will be satisfied on the expected timetable or at all, with respect to pipeline products that the products will receive the necessary regulatory approvals or that they will prove to be commercially successful. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, uncertainties as to the timing of the offer and the subsequent merger; uncertainties as to how many of Imago’s stockholders will tender their shares in the offer; the risk that competing offers or acquisition proposals will be made; the possibility that various conditions to the consummation of the merger and the offer contemplated thereby may not be satisfied or waived; the effects of disruption from the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement and the impact of the announcement and pendency of the transactions on Imago’s business; the risk that stockholder litigation in connection with the offer or the merger may result in significant costs of defense, indemnification and liability; general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of the global outbreak of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19); the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; Merck’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of Merck’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.

Merck undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in Merck’s 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K and Merck’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov).

Forward-Looking Statements of Imago BioSciences

All statements, other than statements of historical facts, contained in this press release, including statements regarding the results, conduct, progress and timing of Imago clinical trials, the regulatory approval path for Bomedemstat, plans for future operations and information related to Imago and the proposed acquisition of Imago, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements about the potential benefits of the proposed acquisition; the parties’ ability to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the tender offer and the other conditions to the consummation of the acquisition; statements about the expected timetable for completing the transaction; and the anticipated timing of closing of the proposed acquisition. Any forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations of future events and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those set forth in, or implied by, such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, Imago’s limited operating history and lack of products for

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commercial sale; Imago’s dependence on development, regulatory approval and commercialization of its product candidates; difficulties in enrolling patients and risks of substantial delays in its clinical trials; Imago’s minimal control over product candidates in investigator-initiated clinical trials; uncertainties in the cost and outcomes of its clinical studies and the acceptance for presentation at medical meetings of data from such clinical studies; uncertainties in the regulatory review and approval of Imago’s product candidates if its pivotal studies are positive; potentially material changes to the interim, top-line and preliminary data from its clinical trials; potential undesirable effects of Imago’s product candidates and safety or supply issues, in each case with respect to its product candidates alone or in combination with other compounds or products; Imago’s potential inability to obtain and maintain orphan drug designation and delays in approvals despite FDA Fast Track designation for expedited review; risks related to clinical trials outside of the United States; Imago’s need to manufacture adequate supplies, including multiple batches of Bomedemstat, using a commercial current Good Manufacturing Practice; risks related to information technology system and cybersecurity; risks related to misconduct of Imago’s employees and independent contractors; risks related to hazardous materials and Imago’s compliance with environmental laws and regulations; risks related to litigation and other claims; risks related to reliance on third parties to conduct and support preclinical studies and clinical trials, and to manufacture Imago’s product candidates; risks related to third-party intellectual property infringement claims and Imago’s ability to protect its own intellectual property; risks related to governmental policies and regulations, including with respect to drug prices and reimbursement, and changes thereof; risks related to the satisfaction of waiver of the conditions to closing the proposed acquisition (including the failure to obtain necessary regulatory approvals) in the anticipated timeframe or at all; uncertainties as to how many of Imago’s stockholders will tender their shares of Imago common stock in the tender offer and the possibility that the acquisition does not close; the possibility that competing offers may be made; risks related to obtaining the requisite consents to the acquisition, including, without limitation, the timing (including possible delays) and receipt of clearance under the HSR Act; disruption from the transaction making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; significant transaction costs; and other risks and uncertainties, including those listed in the section titled “Risk Factors” in Imago’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and its subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.

You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved, if at all. Except as required by law, Imago does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

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Merck Investor Contact:	Peter Dannenbaum (908) 740-1037	Imago Investor Contact:	Laurence Watts Gilmartin Group, LLC. Laurence@gilmartinir.com
Merck Media Contacts:	Robert Josephson (203) 914- 2372 Justine Moore (908) 740-6449	Imago Media Contact:	Ian Stone Canale Communications Ian.Stone@canalecomm.com

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EX-99.2

Exhibit 99.2

Dear Imago Investors:

This morning Imago announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Merck in a transaction valued at approximately $1.35 billion. Attached for your reference is a copy of the joint press release issued this morning.

Key highlights:

• Imago shareholders will receive $36 per share in cash, a premium of approximately 107% to the closing share price of Imago on 18 November 2022.

• Under the terms of the agreement, Merck, through a subsidiary, will initiate a tender offer to acquire all outstanding shares of Imago, subject to certain customary closing conditions, including regulatory clearance.

• The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2023.

This event is a testament to the innovation, science, people, and culture of Imago that you believed in. We believe Merck, with its expertise in global drug development and the resources afforded to a large pharmaceutical company, is best positioned to bring bomedemstat and our pipeline of LSD1 inhibitors to the many patients living with hematologic disease.

We are grateful for your support and hope you share our enthusiasm for this transaction. Please reach out to me with any questions you may have, or we can find time to speak.

With high regard,

Hugh

Hugh Young Rienhoff Jr. MD

CEO

Notice to Investors and Security Holders

The tender offer referred to in this communication has not yet commenced. The description contained in this communication is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities, nor is it a substitute for the tender offer materials that Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC (together with its subsidiaries, “Merck”) will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The solicitation and offer to buy shares of common stock (the “Shares”) of Imago BioSciences, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, “Imago”) will only be made pursuant to an offer to purchase and related tender offer materials. At the time the planned tender offer is commenced, Merck will file a tender offer statement on Schedule TO and thereafter Imago will file a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC with respect to the Offer. THE TENDER OFFER MATERIALS (INCLUDING AN OFFER TO PURCHASE, A RELATED LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL AND CERTAIN OTHER OFFER DOCUMENTS) AND THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14D-9 WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. ANY HOLDERS OF SHARES ARE URGED TO READ THESE DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION THAT HOLDERS SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING ANY DECISION REGARDING TENDERING THEIR SHARES.

The offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and the solicitation/recommendation statement will be made available for free at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Additional copies may be obtained for free by contacting Imago. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Imago will be available free of charge on Imago’s internet website at https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings or by contacting Imago’s investor relations contact at laurance@gilmartinir.com. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Merck can be obtained, when filed, free of charge by directing a request to the Information Agent for the tender offer which will be named in the tender offer materials.

In addition to the offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and certain other tender offer documents to be filed by Merck, as well as the solicitation/recommendation statement to be filed by Imago, Imago will continue to file annual, quarterly and current reports with the SEC. Imago’s filings with the SEC are available to the public from commercial document-retrieval services and at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.

Forward Looking Statements

The information contained in this communication is as of the date of this communication. Imago assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this communication as the result of new information or future events or developments, except as may be required by law.

This communication contains forward-looking information related to Imago and the proposed acquisition of Imago that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Forward-looking statements in this communication include, among other things, statements about the potential benefits of the proposed acquisition; the parties’ ability to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the tender offer and the other conditions to the consummation of the acquisition; statements about the expected timetable for completing the transaction; Imago’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, the financial condition, results of operations and business of Imago, Imago’s product pipeline and the anticipated timing of closing of the proposed acquisition.

Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, uncertainties as to the timing of the tender offer and the subsequent merger; risks related to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to closing the proposed acquisition (including the failure to obtain necessary regulatory approvals) in the anticipated timeframe or at all; uncertainties as to how many of Imago’s stockholders will tender their shares of Imago common stock in the tender offer and the possibility that the acquisition does not close; the possibility that competing offers or acquisition proposals may be made; risks related to obtaining the requisite consents to the acquisition, including, without limitation, the timing (including possible delays) and receipt of clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended; disruption from the transaction making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; significant transaction costs; Imago’s limited operating history and lack of products for commercial sale; Imago’s dependence on development, regulatory approval and commercialization of its product candidates; difficulties in enrolling patients and risks of substantial delays in its clinical trials; Imago’s minimal control over product candidates in investigator-initiated clinical trials; uncertainties in the cost and outcomes of its clinical studies and the acceptance for presentation at medical meetings of data from such clinical studies; uncertainties in the regulatory review and approval of Imago’s product candidates if its pivotal studies are positive; potentially material changes to the interim, top-line and preliminary data from its clinical trials; potential undesirable effects of Imago’s product candidates and safety or supply issues, in each case with respect to its product candidates alone or in combination with other compounds or products; Imago’s potential inability to obtain and maintain orphan drug designation and delays in approvals despite FDA Fast Track designation for expedited review; risks related to clinical trials outside of the United States; Imago’s need to manufacture adequate supplies, including multiple batches of Bomedemstat, using a commercial current Good Manufacturing Practice; risks related to information technology system and cybersecurity; risks related to misconduct of Imago’s employees and independent contractors; risks related to hazardous materials and Imago’s compliance with environmental laws and regulations; risks related to litigation and other claims; risks related to

reliance on third parties to conduct and support preclinical studies and clinical trials, and to manufacture Imago’s product candidates; risks related to third-party intellectual property infringement claims and Imago’s ability to protect its own intellectual property; and risks related to governmental policies and regulations, including with respect to drug prices and reimbursement, and changes thereof.

Further descriptions of risks and uncertainties relating to Imago can be found in Imago’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2022, its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and subsequent Current Reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov and https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings. These forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and assessments made by Imago in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, business strategies, operating environment, future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. Although it is believed that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements in this communication are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct and persons reading this corporate release are therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as at the date of this corporate release.

EX-99.3

Exhibit 99.3

Dear Imaginarians:

Ten years ago, Laura, Jennifer, Amber, Amy and I came together as Imago BioSciences to develop new medicines for the treatment of hematologic diseases. In that time, the growing team has achieved several meaningful milestones, the most important of which is bringing bomedemstat to the cusp of a pivotal Phase 3 trial for the treatment of essential thrombocythemia.

Today marks another milestone for Imago: the Board of Directors has entered into a definitive agreement with Merck to acquire Imago for $36 per share representing a total equity value of approximately $1.35 billion. Attached for your reference is the public announcement made this morning.

This deal is a testament to our innovation, science, people, and culture. Every single person at Imago has contributed to our progress. Most importantly, we have developed a medicine that shows great promise as a treatment for myeloid malignancies. To reach this point in development is a significant achievement for any organization, and we should all be very proud. It is clear Merck recognizes this achievement and the talent of our team in getting us to this point. Though we are tiny by most standards, together we have also created significant value for our shareholders, some of whom have nurtured their belief in Imago for 8 plus years.

We believe Merck, with its expertise in global drug development and the resources afforded to a large pharmaceutical company, is well-positioned to bring bomedemstat and our pipeline to the many patients living with myeloid malignancies.

Until the closing of the transaction, which is subject to standard closing conditions and is expected to occur in the first quarter of 2023, we will continue to operate as an independent company. It is critical we remain focused on our clinical development, CMC and scientific efforts to maintain our timelines.

We will hold a town hall meeting this morning at 10am Eastern time to discuss the transaction with as many answers as we have at this time. Tomorrow at 1pm Eastern there will be a company-wide Teams call with both the CEO and President of Merck Research Labs, who will introduce themselves and share their thoughts about the merger with Imago. As always, I will share any information I can with the understanding that Imago is in a transaction process with many details to be worked through. In short, I do not yet have all of the answers.

The announcement today will generate interest from press or other external parties. If you receive any inquiries related to the transaction, do not respond, but rather forward those inquiries to Mike Arenberg. Be mindful we are in a restricted communications period for the present. Though the deal has been announced publicly, we should not comment, share, or post anything on social media regarding the news from our personal or Imago accounts to avoid any written communications about the transaction.

I look forward to speaking with all of you this morning.

With high regards,

Hugh

Hugh Young Rienhoff Jr.

CEO

Notice to Investors and Security Holders

The tender offer referred to in this communication has not yet commenced. The description contained in this communication is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities, nor is it a substitute for the tender offer materials that Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC (together with its subsidiaries, “Merck”) will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The solicitation and offer to buy shares of common stock (the “Shares”) of Imago BioSciences, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, “Imago”) will only be made pursuant to an offer to purchase and related tender offer materials. At the time the planned tender offer is commenced, Merck will file a tender offer statement on Schedule TO and thereafter Imago will file a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC with respect to the Offer. THE TENDER OFFER MATERIALS (INCLUDING AN OFFER TO PURCHASE, A RELATED LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL AND CERTAIN OTHER OFFER DOCUMENTS) AND THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14D-9 WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. ANY HOLDERS OF SHARES ARE URGED TO READ THESE DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION THAT HOLDERS SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING ANY DECISION REGARDING TENDERING THEIR SHARES.

The offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and the solicitation/recommendation statement will be made available for free at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Additional copies may be obtained for free by contacting Imago. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Imago will be available free of charge on Imago’s internet website at https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings or by contacting Imago’s investor relations contact at laurance@gilmartinir.com. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Merck can be obtained, when filed, free of charge by directing a request to the Information Agent for the tender offer which will be named in the tender offer materials.

In addition to the offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and certain other tender offer documents to be filed by Merck, as well as the solicitation/recommendation statement to be filed by Imago, Imago will continue to file annual, quarterly and current reports with the SEC. Imago’s filings with the SEC are available to the public from commercial document-retrieval services and at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.

Forward Looking Statements

The information contained in this communication is as of the date of this communication. Imago assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this communication as the result of new information or future events or developments, except as may be required by law.

This communication contains forward-looking information related to Imago and the proposed acquisition of Imago that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Forward-looking statements in this communication include, among other things, statements about the potential benefits of the proposed acquisition; the parties’ ability to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the tender offer and the other conditions to the consummation of the acquisition; statements about the expected timetable for completing the transaction; Imago’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, the financial condition, results of operations and business of Imago, Imago’s product pipeline and the anticipated timing of closing of the proposed acquisition.

Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, uncertainties as to the timing of the tender offer and the subsequent merger; risks related to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to closing the proposed acquisition (including the failure to obtain necessary regulatory approvals) in the anticipated timeframe or at all; uncertainties as to how many of Imago’s stockholders will tender their shares of Imago common stock in the tender offer and the possibility that the acquisition does not close; the possibility that competing offers or acquisition proposals may be made; risks related to obtaining the requisite consents to the acquisition, including, without limitation, the timing (including possible delays) and receipt of clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended; disruption from the transaction making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; significant transaction costs; Imago’s limited operating history and lack of products for commercial sale; Imago’s dependence on development, regulatory approval and commercialization of its product candidates; difficulties in enrolling patients and risks of substantial delays in its clinical trials; Imago’s minimal control over product candidates in investigator-initiated clinical trials; uncertainties in the cost and outcomes of its clinical studies and the acceptance for presentation at medical meetings of data from such clinical studies; uncertainties in the regulatory review and approval of Imago’s product candidates if its pivotal studies are positive; potentially material changes to the interim, top-line and preliminary data from its clinical trials; potential undesirable effects of Imago’s product candidates and safety or supply issues, in each case with respect to its product candidates alone or in combination with other compounds or products; Imago’s potential inability to obtain and maintain orphan drug designation and delays in approvals despite FDA Fast Track designation for expedited review; risks related to clinical trials outside of the United States; Imago’s need to manufacture adequate supplies, including multiple batches of Bomedemstat, using a commercial current Good Manufacturing Practice; risks related to information technology system and cybersecurity; risks related to misconduct of Imago’s employees and independent contractors; risks related to hazardous materials and Imago’s compliance with environmental laws and regulations; risks related to litigation and other claims; risks related to reliance on third parties to conduct and support preclinical studies and clinical trials, and to manufacture Imago’s product candidates; risks related to third-party intellectual property infringement claims and Imago’s ability to protect its own intellectual property; and risks related to governmental policies and regulations, including with respect to drug prices and reimbursement, and changes thereof.

Further descriptions of risks and uncertainties relating to Imago can be found in Imago’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2022, its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and subsequent Current Reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov and https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings. These forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and assessments made by Imago in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, business strategies, operating environment, future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. Although it is believed that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements in this communication are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct and persons reading this corporate release are therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as at the date of this corporate release.

EX-99.4

Exhibit 99.4

Letter to Clinical Investigators

Dear :

As you may not know, it has been ten years since Laura, Jennifer, Amber, Amy and I came together as Imago BioSciences to develop new medicines for the treatment of hematologic diseases. Over that decade we achieved several meaningful milestones, the most important of which is bringing bomedemstat to the cusp of a pivotal Phase 3 trial for the treatment of essential thrombocythemia. This is a significant accomplishment for any organization, and I am indebted to the contribution you as a clinician have made to our progress.

We announced this morning that the Imago Board of Directors agreed to enter into a definitive agreement with Merck to acquire Imago. I believe that Merck, with its expertise in global drug development and the scientific and financial resources afforded to a large pharmaceutical company, is best positioned to bring bomedemstat and our pipeline to the many patients living with myeloid malignancies. This transaction is, in part, a testament by Merck that Imago has been working with the most experienced and conscientious clinical investigators imaginable. Merck also recognizes that the Imago team wants to make a contribution to the science underlying both bomedemstat and the diseases we aim to treat. They too are a science-driven organization.

Though I don’t have all the answers as this has been a very recent development, I will try to answer any questions you might have.

Best wishes,

Hugh

Notice to Investors and Security Holders

The tender offer referred to in this communication has not yet commenced. The description contained in this communication is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities, nor is it a substitute for the tender offer materials that Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC (together with its subsidiaries, “Merck”) will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The solicitation and offer to buy shares of common stock (the “Shares”) of Imago BioSciences, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, “Imago”) will only be made pursuant to an offer to purchase and related tender offer materials. At the time

the planned tender offer is commenced, Merck will file a tender offer statement on Schedule TO and thereafter Imago will file a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC with respect to the Offer. THE TENDER OFFER MATERIALS (INCLUDING AN OFFER TO PURCHASE, A RELATED LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL AND CERTAIN OTHER OFFER DOCUMENTS) AND THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14D-9 WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. ANY HOLDERS OF SHARES ARE URGED TO READ THESE DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION THAT HOLDERS SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING ANY DECISION REGARDING TENDERING THEIR SHARES.

The offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and the solicitation/recommendation statement will be made available for free at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Additional copies may be obtained for free by contacting Imago. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Imago will be available free of charge on Imago’s internet website at https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings or by contacting Imago’s investor relations contact at laurance@gilmartinir.com. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Merck can be obtained, when filed, free of charge by directing a request to the Information Agent for the tender offer which will be named in the tender offer materials.

In addition to the offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and certain other tender offer documents to be filed by Merck, as well as the solicitation/recommendation statement to be filed by Imago, Imago will continue to file annual, quarterly and current reports with the SEC. Imago’s filings with the SEC are available to the public from commercial document-retrieval services and at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.

Forward Looking Statements

The information contained in this communication is as of the date of this communication. Imago assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this communication as the result of new information or future events or developments, except as may be required by law.

This communication contains forward-looking information related to Imago and the proposed acquisition of Imago that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Forward-looking statements in this communication include, among other things, statements about the potential benefits of the proposed acquisition; the parties’ ability to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the tender offer and the other conditions to the consummation of the acquisition; statements about the expected timetable for completing the transaction; Imago’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, the financial condition, results of operations and business of Imago, Imago’s product pipeline and the anticipated timing of closing of the proposed acquisition.

Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, uncertainties as to the timing of the tender offer and the subsequent merger; risks related to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to closing the proposed acquisition (including the failure to obtain necessary regulatory approvals) in the anticipated timeframe or at all; uncertainties as to how many of Imago’s stockholders will tender their shares of Imago common stock in the tender offer and the possibility that the acquisition does not close; the possibility that competing offers or acquisition proposals may be made; risks related to obtaining the requisite consents to the acquisition, including, without limitation, the timing (including possible delays) and receipt of clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended; disruption from the transaction making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; significant transaction costs; Imago’s limited operating history and lack of products for commercial sale; Imago’s dependence on development, regulatory approval and commercialization of its product candidates; difficulties in enrolling patients and risks of substantial delays in its clinical trials; Imago’s minimal control over product candidates in investigator-initiated clinical trials; uncertainties in the cost and outcomes of its clinical studies and the acceptance for presentation at medical meetings of data from such clinical studies; uncertainties in the regulatory review and approval of Imago’s product candidates if its pivotal studies are positive; potentially material changes to the interim, top-line and preliminary data from its clinical trials; potential undesirable effects of Imago’s product candidates and safety or supply issues, in each case with respect to its product candidates alone or in combination with other compounds or products; Imago’s potential inability to obtain and maintain orphan drug designation and delays in approvals despite FDA Fast Track designation for expedited review; risks related to clinical trials outside of the United States; Imago’s need to manufacture adequate supplies, including multiple batches of Bomedemstat, using a commercial current Good Manufacturing Practice; risks related to information technology system and cybersecurity; risks related to misconduct of Imago’s employees and independent contractors; risks related to hazardous materials and Imago’s compliance with environmental laws and regulations; risks related to litigation and other claims; risks related to reliance on third parties to conduct and support preclinical studies and clinical trials, and to manufacture Imago’s product candidates; risks related to third-party intellectual property infringement claims and Imago’s ability to protect its own intellectual property; and risks related to governmental policies and regulations, including with respect to drug prices and reimbursement, and changes thereof.

Further descriptions of risks and uncertainties relating to Imago can be found in Imago’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2022, its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and subsequent Current Reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov and https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings. These forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and assessments made by Imago in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, business strategies, operating environment, future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and

uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. Although it is believed that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements in this communication are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct and persons reading this corporate release are therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as at the date of this corporate release.

EX-99.5

Exhibit 99.5

21 November 2022

Dear Vendors and Service Providers:

This morning Imago announced that the Board of Directors have agreed to enter into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Merck. Attached for your reference is a copy of the joint press release issued this morning.

This deal is a testament to our innovation, science, people, and culture. Most importantly, we have, with your help, developed a medicine that shows great promise as a treatment for myeloid malignancies. Merck clearly recognizes this achievement. To reach this point in development is a significant accomplishment for any organization, but for such a small company such as Imago, we could not have done this alone. We are grateful for the productive relationship we have had with all our vendors.

We expect the transaction to close in the first quarter of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions.

If you have any questions, please let us know.

We thank you for contributing to the success of Imago.

With high regards,

Amy Tapper, Chief Technical Officer

Laura Eichorn, CFO

Jennifer Peppe, Global Head, Clinical Operations

Hugh Young Rienhoff Jr., CEO

Notice to Investors and Security Holders

The tender offer referred to in this communication has not yet commenced. The description contained in this communication is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities, nor is it a substitute for the tender offer materials that Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC (together with its subsidiaries, “Merck”) will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The solicitation and offer to buy shares of common stock (the “Shares”) of Imago BioSciences, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, “Imago”) will only be made pursuant to an offer to purchase and related tender offer materials. At the time

the planned tender offer is commenced, Merck will file a tender offer statement on Schedule TO and thereafter Imago will file a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC with respect to the Offer. THE TENDER OFFER MATERIALS (INCLUDING AN OFFER TO PURCHASE, A RELATED LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL AND CERTAIN OTHER OFFER DOCUMENTS) AND THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14D-9 WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. ANY HOLDERS OF SHARES ARE URGED TO READ THESE DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION THAT HOLDERS SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING ANY DECISION REGARDING TENDERING THEIR SHARES.

The offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and the solicitation/recommendation statement will be made available for free at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Additional copies may be obtained for free by contacting Imago. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Imago will be available free of charge on Imago’s internet website at https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings or by contacting Imago’s investor relations contact at laurance@gilmartinir.com. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Merck can be obtained, when filed, free of charge by directing a request to the Information Agent for the tender offer which will be named in the tender offer materials.

In addition to the offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and certain other tender offer documents to be filed by Merck, as well as the solicitation/recommendation statement to be filed by Imago, Imago will continue to file annual, quarterly and current reports with the SEC. Imago’s filings with the SEC are available to the public from commercial document-retrieval services and at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.

Forward Looking Statements

The information contained in this communication is as of the date of this communication. Imago assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this communication as the result of new information or future events or developments, except as may be required by law.

This communication contains forward-looking information related to Imago and the proposed acquisition of Imago that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Forward-looking statements in this communication include, among other things, statements about the potential benefits of the proposed acquisition; the parties’ ability to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the tender offer and the other conditions to the consummation of the acquisition; statements about the expected timetable for completing the transaction; Imago’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, the financial condition, results of operations and business of Imago, Imago’s product pipeline and the anticipated timing of closing of the proposed acquisition.

Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, uncertainties as to the timing of the tender offer and the subsequent merger; risks related to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to closing the proposed acquisition (including the failure to obtain necessary regulatory approvals) in the anticipated timeframe or at all; uncertainties as to how many of Imago’s stockholders will tender their shares of Imago common stock in the tender offer and the possibility that the acquisition does not close; the possibility that competing offers or acquisition proposals may be made; risks related to obtaining the requisite consents to the acquisition, including, without limitation, the timing (including possible delays) and receipt of clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended; disruption from the transaction making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; significant transaction costs; Imago’s limited operating history and lack of products for commercial sale; Imago’s dependence on development, regulatory approval and commercialization of its product candidates; difficulties in enrolling patients and risks of substantial delays in its clinical trials; Imago’s minimal control over product candidates in investigator-initiated clinical trials; uncertainties in the cost and outcomes of its clinical studies and the acceptance for presentation at medical meetings of data from such clinical studies; uncertainties in the regulatory review and approval of Imago’s product candidates if its pivotal studies are positive; potentially material changes to the interim, top-line and preliminary data from its clinical trials; potential undesirable effects of Imago’s product candidates and safety or supply issues, in each case with respect to its product candidates alone or in combination with other compounds or products; Imago’s potential inability to obtain and maintain orphan drug designation and delays in approvals despite FDA Fast Track designation for expedited review; risks related to clinical trials outside of the United States; Imago’s need to manufacture adequate supplies, including multiple batches of Bomedemstat, using a commercial current Good Manufacturing Practice; risks related to information technology system and cybersecurity; risks related to misconduct of Imago’s employees and independent contractors; risks related to hazardous materials and Imago’s compliance with environmental laws and regulations; risks related to litigation and other claims; risks related to reliance on third parties to conduct and support preclinical studies and clinical trials, and to manufacture Imago’s product candidates; risks related to third-party intellectual property infringement claims and Imago’s ability to protect its own intellectual property; and risks related to governmental policies and regulations, including with respect to drug prices and reimbursement, and changes thereof.

Further descriptions of risks and uncertainties relating to Imago can be found in Imago’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2022, its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and subsequent Current Reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov and https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings. These forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and assessments made by Imago in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, business strategies, operating environment, future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate.

By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. Although it is believed that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements in this communication are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct and persons reading this corporate release are therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as at the date of this corporate release.

EX-99.6

Exhibit 99.6

Letter to Scientific Collaborators

Dear :

As you may not know, it has been ten years since Laura, Jennifer, Amber, Amy and I came together as Imago BioSciences to develop new medicines for the treatment of hematologic diseases. Over that decade we achieved several meaningful milestones, the most important of which is bringing bomedemstat to the cusp of a pivotal Phase 3 trial for the treatment of essential thrombocythemia. This is a significant accomplishment for any organization, and I am indebted to the contribution you have made to our success.

We announced this morning the Imago Board of Directors agreed to enter into a definitive agreement with Merck to acquire Imago.    I believe that Merck, with its expertise in global drug development and the scientific and financial resources afforded to a large pharmaceutical company, is best positioned to bring bomedemstat and our pipeline to the many patients living with myeloid malignancies.

Though I don’t have all the answers as this has been a very recent development, I will try to answer any questions you might have.

Best wishes,

Hugh

Notice to Investors and Security Holders

The tender offer referred to in this communication has not yet commenced. The description contained in this communication is neither an offer to purchase nor a solicitation of an offer to sell any securities, nor is it a substitute for the tender offer materials that Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC (together with its subsidiaries, “Merck”) will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). The solicitation and offer to buy shares of common stock (the “Shares”) of Imago BioSciences, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, “Imago”) will only be made pursuant to an offer to purchase and related tender offer materials. At the time the planned tender offer is commenced, Merck will file a tender offer statement on Schedule TO and thereafter Imago will file a solicitation/recommendation statement on Schedule 14D-9 with the SEC with respect to the Offer. THE TENDER OFFER MATERIALS (INCLUDING AN OFFER TO PURCHASE, A RELATED LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL AND CERTAIN OTHER OFFER DOCUMENTS) AND THE SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON

SCHEDULE 14D-9 WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. ANY HOLDERS OF SHARES ARE URGED TO READ THESE DOCUMENTS CAREFULLY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION THAT HOLDERS SHOULD CONSIDER BEFORE MAKING ANY DECISION REGARDING TENDERING THEIR SHARES.

The offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and the solicitation/recommendation statement will be made available for free at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Additional copies may be obtained for free by contacting Imago. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Imago will be available free of charge on Imago’s internet website at https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings or by contacting Imago’s investor relations contact at laurance@gilmartinir.com. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Merck can be obtained, when filed, free of charge by directing a request to the Information Agent for the tender offer which will be named in the tender offer materials.

In addition to the offer to purchase, the related letter of transmittal and certain other tender offer documents to be filed by Merck, as well as the solicitation/recommendation statement to be filed by Imago, Imago will continue to file annual, quarterly and current reports with the SEC. Imago’s filings with the SEC are available to the public from commercial document-retrieval services and at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov.

Forward Looking Statements

The information contained in this communication is as of the date of this communication. Imago assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this communication as the result of new information or future events or developments, except as may be required by law.

This communication contains forward-looking information related to Imago and the proposed acquisition of Imago that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Forward-looking statements in this communication include, among other things, statements about the potential benefits of the proposed acquisition; the parties’ ability to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the tender offer and the other conditions to the consummation of the acquisition; statements about the expected timetable for completing the transaction; Imago’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, the financial condition, results of operations and business of Imago, Imago’s product pipeline and the anticipated timing of closing of the proposed acquisition.

Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, uncertainties as to the timing of the tender offer and the subsequent merger; risks related to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to closing the proposed acquisition (including the failure to obtain necessary regulatory approvals) in the anticipated timeframe or at all; uncertainties as to how many of Imago’s stockholders will tender their shares of Imago common stock in the tender offer and the possibility that the acquisition does not close; the possibility that competing offers

or acquisition proposals may be made; risks related to obtaining the requisite consents to the acquisition, including, without limitation, the timing (including possible delays) and receipt of clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended; disruption from the transaction making it more difficult to maintain business and operational relationships; significant transaction costs; Imago’s limited operating history and lack of products for commercial sale; Imago’s dependence on development, regulatory approval and commercialization of its product candidates; difficulties in enrolling patients and risks of substantial delays in its clinical trials; Imago’s minimal control over product candidates in investigator-initiated clinical trials; uncertainties in the cost and outcomes of its clinical studies and the acceptance for presentation at medical meetings of data from such clinical studies; uncertainties in the regulatory review and approval of Imago’s product candidates if its pivotal studies are positive; potentially material changes to the interim, top-line and preliminary data from its clinical trials; potential undesirable effects of Imago’s product candidates and safety or supply issues, in each case with respect to its product candidates alone or in combination with other compounds or products; Imago’s potential inability to obtain and maintain orphan drug designation and delays in approvals despite FDA Fast Track designation for expedited review; risks related to clinical trials outside of the United States; Imago’s need to manufacture adequate supplies, including multiple batches of Bomedemstat, using a commercial current Good Manufacturing Practice; risks related to information technology system and cybersecurity; risks related to misconduct of Imago’s employees and independent contractors; risks related to hazardous materials and Imago’s compliance with environmental laws and regulations; risks related to litigation and other claims; risks related to reliance on third parties to conduct and support preclinical studies and clinical trials, and to manufacture Imago’s product candidates; risks related to third-party intellectual property infringement claims and Imago’s ability to protect its own intellectual property; and risks related to governmental policies and regulations, including with respect to drug prices and reimbursement, and changes thereof.

Further descriptions of risks and uncertainties relating to Imago can be found in Imago’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2022, its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 and subsequent Current Reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov and https://ir.imagobio.com/financial-information/sec-filings. These forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and assessments made by Imago in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, business strategies, operating environment, future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future. Although it is believed that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements in this communication are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct and persons reading this corporate release are therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as at the date of this corporate release.

EX-99.7

Exhibit 99.7

Imago BioSciences @imagobiorx Twitter: Today we have entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by @Merck for a total equity value of approximately $1.35 billion. Read more in today’s pressrelease: merck.com/news/merck-to-... 8:17 AM Nov 21, 2022. Twitter Web App Merck to Acquire Imago BioSciences, Inc. IMAGBIOOCENCES Imago BioSciences Pig @imagobiorx Today we have entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by @Merck for a total equity value of approximately $1.35 billion. Read more in today’s press release: merck.com/news/merck-to-... IMAGO BOSCHINCES “This milestone is a testament to more than a decade of pioneering research by Imago scientists and the entire Imago team’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of patients. This agreement leverages Merck’s industry-leading clinical development expertise to maximize the therapeutic potential of bomedemstat while providing important value for shareholders.” Hugh Y. Rienhoff, Jr., M.D. Chief Executive Officer 8:17 AM—Nov 21, 2022—Twitter Web App Imago BioSciences @imagobiorx Today we have entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by @Merck for a total equity value of approximately $1.35 billion. Read more in today’s press release: merck.com/news/merck-to-... IMAGO “I would also like to acknowledge with gratitude the early investors Blackstone Life Sciences, Frazier Healthcare, Omega Funds, Amgen Ventures, and MRL. Ventures Fund who placed their faith in Imago beginning in 2014, as well as the outstanding study investigators and their patients who have made the clinical development of bomedemstat possible.” Hugh Y. Rienhoff, Jr., M.D. Chief Executive Officer 8:17 AM—Nov 21, 2022. Twitter Web App Imago BioSciences, Inc. Pig 1514 followers 49m. Edited. LinkedIn: + Follow Today we announced that we have entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Merck for a total equity value of approximately $1.35 billion. Read more in today’s press release: https://lnkd.in/gDgvrP54 Imago BioSciences, Inc. 1,514 followers 49m-Edited + Follow ... Today we announced that we have entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Merck for a total equity value of approximately $1.35 billion. Read more in today’s press release: https://lnkd.in/gDgvrP54 Imago BioSciences, Inc. 1,514 followers 49m-Edited- + Follow Today we announced that we have entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Merck for a total equity value of approximately $1.35 billion. Read more in today’s press release: https://lnkd.in/gDgvrP54 Merck to Acquire Imago BioSciences, Inc. IMAGO BOSCIENCES IMAGO ROSENCES “This milestone is a testament to more than a decade of pioneering research by Imago scientists and the entire Imago team’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of patients. This agreement leverages Merck’s industry-leading clinical development expertise to maximize the therapeutic potential of bomedemstat whileproviding important value for shareholders.“Hugh Y. Rienhoff, Jr., M.D. Chief Executive Officer IMAGO BOSCIENCES “I would also like to acknowledge withgratitude the early investors—Blackstone Life Sciences, Frazier Healthcare, Omega Funds, Amgen Ventures, and MRL Ventures Fund who placed their faith in Imago beginning in 2014, as well as theoutstanding study investigators and theirpatients who have made the clinicaldevelopment of bomedemstat possible.“Hugh Y. Rienhoff, Jr., M.D.Chief Executive Officer