GSK has announced a $1.2 billion deal to acquire efimosfermin alfa from Boston Pharmaceuticals, writes John George for the Philadelphia Business Journal.
The Montco-based company promised up to $800 million more if certain developmental milestones are met. The once-monthly drug targets metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), including cirrhosis, and may eventually be expanded to treat alcohol-related liver disease.
With limited therapies available for MASH, GSK sees efimosfermin as a potential game-changer. The drug will enter late-stage clinical trials, possibly leading to a 2029 launch. They also envisions pairing it with a siRNA therapy it’s developing for steatotic liver disease.
The company’s research hub in Upper Providence Township—a cornerstone of GSK’s U.S. R&D operations—will likely support future development. GSK employs 4,000 people in the Philadelphia region and reported $40.1 billion in 2024 revenue.
This deal positions GSK to compete with Conshohocken-based Madrigal Pharmaceuticals, whose FDA-approved MASH drug, Rezdiffra, earned $180.1 million last year.
GSK’s Chief Scientific Officer Tony Wood said efimosfermin has the potential “to define a new standard-of-care” with its monthly dosing and tolerability.
To learn more about this acquisition and its impact on the region’s biotech scene, visit the Philadelphia Business Journal.
