GSK divests rare disease gene therapy portfolio

UK pharma major GlaxoSmithKline (LSE: GSK) and Orchard Therapeutics today announced a strategic agreement, under which GSK will transfer its portfolio of approved and investigational rare disease gene therapies to Orchard, securing the continued development of the programs and access for patients.

This acquisition strengthens UK and USA-based clinical-stage biotech Orchard’s position as a global leader in gene therapy for rare diseases. GSK will continue to invest in the development of its platform capabilities in cell and gene therapies, with a focus on oncology. It is also in line with new GSK chief executive Emma Walmsley’s promise to prune the company’s pharmaceuticals portfolio announced in July last year.

Deal includes equity stake in Orchard