GSK completes acquisition of 35Pharma Inc. for $950 million

GSK plc has announced the completion of its acquisition of 35Pharma Inc., a Canada-based biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel protein-based therapeutics. The deal includes HS235, a molecule GSK expects to be a leading treatment for pulmonary hypertension (PH).

Hemodynamic studies indicate HS235 targets the activin receptor signalling pathway, a clinically validated target for PH. The global market for PH therapies is projected to reach $18 billion by 2032. Approximately 82 million people worldwide are affected by various forms of PH, a progressive disease with limited treatment options and a low five-year survival rate.

HS235 is designed with enhanced selectivity, potentially reducing the risk of adverse events such as bleeding, which can be a limitation in current therapies. Early studies also suggest potential metabolic benefits, including fat-selective weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity. These could offer significant value given the high prevalence of obesity and insulin resistance among PH patients.

GSK acquired 100% of 35Pharma Inc. for $950 million. The company plans to initiate proof-of-concept trials for HS235 in two forms of PH: pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and pulmonary hypertension due to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (PH-HFpEF).

The acquisition positions GSK to potentially expand treatment options for PH patients. The company aims to advance HS235 through further clinical development, addressing a significant unmet medical need in the global PH population.