Gilead Sciences has acquired the small Danish biotech EpiTherapeutics for €57M. The epigenetics-expert has generated a library of small molecule inhibitors of gene transcription regulation than can be used for certain cancer treatments.
The American company announced the signing of a definitive agreement to purchase the Danish company for €57M. EpiTherapeutics is developing innovative cancer drugs based on epigenetics, a therapeutic area researched by renowned scientist Professor Kristian Helin and his group at the Biotech Research & Innovation Centre (BRIC) at the University of Copenhagen. The company’s development programs are focused on enzymes involved in the regulation of transcription in cancer. Its lead compounds are still in a pre-clinical phase.
Gilead, who already purchased New Jersey-based Pharmasset in 2011, owes its growth to Pharmasset’s hepatitis C drug. Let’s see if this new acquisition also helps Gilead to beef up its portfolio.