GSK Acquires RAPT Therapeutics for $2.2 Billion to Enhance Food Allergy Treatment Pipeline

GSK plc has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire RAPT Therapeutics, a California-based biopharmaceutical company, for $2.2 billion. This acquisition includes ozureprubart, a long-acting anti-immunoglobulin E (IgE) monoclonal antibody currently in phase IIb clinical development aimed at providing prophylactic protection against food allergies. GSK will pay RAPT shareholders $58 per share, representing a 65.2% premium over RAPT's recent closing price.

GSK to Acquire RAPT Therapeutics in Strategic AgreementBenzingaGSK to acquire US-based biopharma company RAPT Therapeutics via a $2.2 billion deal — Details here

Ozureprubart is designed to target IgE antibodies, which are responsible for triggering allergic reactions. Current treatments require injections every 2 to 4 weeks, posing a significant burden, especially for pediatric patients. In contrast, ozureprubart could potentially allow for dosing every 12 weeks, improving patient compliance and offering a new option for approximately 25% of patients currently ineligible for existing therapies. In the U.S., over 17 million people are diagnosed with food allergies, leading to more than 3 million emergency care visits annually.

GSK enters agreement to acquire RAPT TherapeuticsBenzingaGSK Agrees to Acquire RAPT Therapeutics

Under the terms of the agreement, GSK's upfront investment is estimated at $1.9 billion after accounting for cash acquired. The deal grants GSK global rights to the ozureprubart program, excluding mainland China, Macau, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. GSK will also be responsible for milestone and royalty payments to RAPT's partner, Shanghai Jeyou Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. The acquisition is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.

GSK enters agreement to acquire RAPT TherapeuticsGSK to acquire US-based biopharma company RAPT Therapeutics via a $2.2 billion deal — Details hereThe Guardian

Tony Wood, Chief Scientific Officer at GSK, stated, “The addition of ozureprubart brings another promising new, potential best-in-class treatment to GSK’s pipeline.” He emphasized the importance of addressing the unmet medical needs associated with food allergies. Brian Wong, President and CEO of RAPT Therapeutics, expressed excitement about the acquisition, noting it provides access to GSK's global development and commercialization capabilities.

GSK to Acquire RAPT Therapeutics in Strategic AgreementThe GuardianGSK to acquire US-based biopharma company RAPT Therapeutics via a $2.2 billion deal — Details here

Analysts have raised concerns regarding the timing and strategic fit of the acquisition. Some believe that RAPT's ozureprubart is earlier-stage than GSK typically targets, especially as the company faces impending patent expirations for its top-selling HIV drug, dolutegravir. Jefferies analyst Michael Leuchten highlighted the need for GSK to pursue consistent acquisitions to support future growth.

Reuters

GSK plans to initiate a tender offer for all outstanding shares of RAPT common stock within ten business days of signing the agreement. Data from the phase IIb trial assessing ozureprubart is expected in 2027, with phase III trials focusing on at-risk adult and pediatric populations anticipated to follow.

GSK to Acquire RAPT Therapeutics in Strategic Agreement

• “The addition of ozureprubart brings another promising new, potential best-in-class treatment to GSK’s pipeline.” — Tony Wood, Chief Scientific Officer, GSK

GSK Agrees to Acquire RAPT Therapeutics

• “This transaction has the potential to provide access to the global development and commercialisation capabilities, resources and infrastructure that GSK has to offer and ultimately bring added value to our pipeline, patients and stockholders,” — Brian Wong, President & CEO, RAPT Therapeutics

Fierce Biotech

In summary, GSK's acquisition of RAPT Therapeutics marks a significant step in enhancing its pipeline for food allergy treatments, addressing a critical health issue affecting millions while navigating the challenges posed by patent expirations in its existing portfolio.

GSK to Acquire RAPT Therapeutics in Strategic Agreement