GlaxoSmithKline is acquiring Okairos AG, a Swiss developer of vaccine technologies, for 250 million euros ($324 million) to expand its range of inoculations.
The all-cash purchase also includes early-stage products targeting respiratory syncytial virus, hepatitis C virus, malaria, tuberculosis, ebola and HIV, London-based Glaxo said in a statement today. The experimental vaccines for malaria and hepatitis C are in the second of three stages of testing usually required for regulatory approval.
Christophe Weber, president of GSK Vaccines said of the deal: “This is a fantastic opportunity for patients and our research organisation as it is expected to contribute to the development efforts for an exciting new generation of vaccines, building on the excellent science and expertise of both companies.”
Riccardo Cortese, chief executive officer and founder, Okairos, added: “I am extremely pleased with this agreement, which will enable GSK to build on the hard work we have put into developing our vaccines and platforms to the stage that they are at today. With its considerable resources and know-how, I am confident that GSK is best-placed to maximise this opportunity to potentially transform the vaccines landscape.”
Okairos uses viruses to deliver genetic material into cells, stimulating the immune system. The technology has been tested in more than 700 people, according to the statement. Glaxo, the U.K.’s biggest drugmaker, said it plans to use the technology from closely held Okairos to produce vaccines that both prevent infections and fight diseases such as cancer.
Glaxo already sells vaccines, including against influenza, hepatitis and rotavirus, and has been developing an inoculation for malaria. The company’s vaccine business generated 3.3 billion pounds ($5 billion) in revenue last year.
Okairos’s investors include BioMedInvest, the Boehringer Ingelheim Venture Fund, LSP, Novartis Venture Funds and Versant Ventures, according to its website.
GSK operates its North American headquarters in RTP.
