- GSK acquired 35Pharma Inc. for $950 million.
- HS235 targets the activin receptor signalling pathway and is designed to reduce BMP9/BMP10 binding to lower bleeding and related adverse-event risks.
- Proof-of-concept trials for HS235 in PAH and PH-HFpEF are expected to start imminently.
- PH therapies market is forecast to reach $18 billion by 2032, with activin signalling inhibitors projected to capture about 50% of the market.
Acquisition
GSK completed the acquisition of 35Pharma Inc., a private clinical‑stage biopharma, buying 100% equity for $950 million.
Candidate: HS235
HS235 targets the activin receptor signalling pathway and is designed with enhanced selectivity to reduce binding to BMP9 and BMP10, potentially lowering risks such as bleeding, pericardial effusion and dose‑limiting haemoglobin increases; early clinical data reported fat‑selective weight loss, preservation of lean mass and improved insulin sensitivity.
Clinical development
Proof‑of‑concept trials are expected to start imminently in two forms of pulmonary hypertension: pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and PH due to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (PH‑HFpEF).
Disease burden and market
Pulmonary hypertension affects an estimated 82 million people across multiple forms and has a five‑year survival rate around 50%; the PH therapeutics market is forecast to reach $18 billion by 2032, with activin signalling inhibitors projected to capture about half of that market.
