GSK’s $950 Million Bet on 35Pharma: A New Wave in Pulmonary Hypertension Treatment?
GSK has acquired privately held 35Pharma for $950 million, a move signaling increased industry focus on pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The acquisition centers around HS235, an experimental drug poised to enter clinical trials for PAH, a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the lungs.
The Rising Tide of PAH Drug Development
Pulmonary arterial hypertension, once a relatively neglected area, is attracting significant pharmaceutical investment. This shift is largely driven by recent successes like Merck’s Winrevair, which generated $1.4 billion in sales in its first year following approval in 2024. The market opportunity is substantial, prompting companies to seek innovative therapies.
HS235: What Makes it Different?
While details surrounding HS235 are limited due to the exclusivity of the STAT+ article, the drug’s potential lies in offering a new approach to treating PAH. 35Pharma’s pipeline similarly includes HS135, targeting cardiometabolic disease and obesity, indicating a broader focus on complex cardiovascular and metabolic conditions.
Beyond PAH: GSK’s Strategic Expansion in Lung Disease
This acquisition aligns with GSK’s broader strategy to bolster its portfolio of respiratory medicines. The company is actively seeking to expand its presence in the lung disease space, recognizing the growing prevalence of conditions like PAH and the unmet medical needs of patients.
The Role of TGF-beta Superfamily Therapeutics
35Pharma specializes in TGF-beta superfamily therapeutics. This class of drugs targets a pathway involved in cell growth and differentiation, offering potential for disease modification. The company’s work on Activin and GDF traps, supported by Series A and B financing led by venBio Partners and Logos Capital respectively, demonstrates a commitment to innovative therapeutic approaches.
Industry Experts Weigh In
Walter Blättler, PhD, Chairman of 35Pharma, highlighted Guy Braunstein’s appointment to the Board of Directors as a key factor in accelerating clinical development. Dr. Braunstein’s experience in leading global clinical development at companies like Actelion, which was acquired for $30 billion, is expected to be invaluable.
Precision AQ and J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference
The upcoming J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in January 2026 will likely feature discussions around this acquisition and the future of PAH treatments. Precision AQ is facilitating meetings for numerous biopharmaceutical companies, including 35Pharma, at the conference.
Financial Backing and Future Prospects
35Pharma’s development has been fueled by significant investment, including Series B financing led by Logos Capital, with participation from Surveyor and Marshall Wace, alongside existing investors. This financial backing underscores the confidence in the company’s pipeline and its potential to deliver innovative therapies.
FAQ
- What is pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)? PAH is a form of high blood pressure affecting the arteries in the lungs.
- What is HS235? HS235 is an experimental drug being developed by 35Pharma for the treatment of PAH.
- Who is GSK? GSK is a global pharmaceutical company.
- What is the significance of the TGF-beta superfamily? This pathway is involved in cell growth and differentiation and is a target for potential disease-modifying therapies.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on clinical trial updates for HS235. Positive results could significantly impact the PAH treatment landscape.
Did you know? Merck’s Winrevair reached $1.4 billion in sales in its first year, demonstrating the commercial potential of new PAH therapies.
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