GSK Acquires MASH Drug Efimosfermin Alfa with $1.2B Upfront Payment

May 14, 2025 16:57 CST Updated 16:57

GSK

Pharmaceutical R&D Manufacturer

Boston Pharmaceuticals

Biopharmaceutical Manufacturer

On May 14 local time, GSK and Boston Pharmaceuticals announced that they had reached an agreement, under which GSK will acquire the latter's key asset, Efimosfermin alfa.

Screenshot source: Corporate official website

According to the terms of the agreement, GSK will acquire BP Asset IX, a subsidiary of Boston Pharmaceuticals, to obtain the sales rights for Efimosfermin.

In return, GSK will pay up to$20 billionThe cash consideration, including$1.2 billionThe prepayment and up to$800 millionThe milestone payments based on success. In addition, GSK will also be responsible for paying the milestone payments based on success as well as the tiered royalties owed to Novartis for Efimosfermin.

Efimosfermin is a novel,Once-monthly dosingFibroblast Growth Factor 21(FGF21)Analog. 2020,Boston Pharmaceuticals withNovartisReach an agreement to obtain the global development and commercial rights for the drug to treat MASH.

Screenshot source: Insight database

The drug is currently in clinical development for the treatment ofMetabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis(MASH), includingLiver Cirrhosis, as well as those that may appear in the futureAlcoholic Liver Disease(ALD), Both of these diseases belong to fatty degenerative liver disease.（SLD）。

Given the direct anti-fibrotic mechanism of action of Efimosfermin and the data obtained by GSK in human genetics and disease phenotype research, the drug is expected to be used for treating more advanced SLD, andHave the opportunity to collaborate withGSK4532990(An siRNA therapy being developed for other SLD patient subgroups)Combined use。

One itemPhase II study data for Efimosfermin shows,Efimosfermin canRapidly and significantly reverse liver fibrosis and halt its progression, with good tolerability.. Compared with other treatment methods, EfimosferminThe effect of fibrosis improvement may be more significant., and the expected benefits are related to glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) Not related to treatment.

In addition, Efimosfermin canReduce Triglyceride Levels and Improve Blood Sugar Control, which is crucial for MASH patients who often have comorbid cardiometabolic diseases. The unique properties of Efimosfermin, including low immunogenicity and extended half-life, also make it possible to adopt a monthly dosing regimen, improving patient convenience.

Cover source: ZCOOL HELLOR

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