Johnson & Johnson completes acquisition of Alios Biopharma for $1.75bn

Alios, which is focused on developing therapies for viral diseases, will now be part of the infectious diseases therapeutic area of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of J&J.

The acquisition includes Alios’ portfolio of potential therapeutics for viral infections including compound AL-8176, an orally administered antiviral therapy being evaluated in Phase II trials to treat infants with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), last of the major pediatric diseases that currently has no effective therapy.

Johnson & Johnson chief scientific officer and worldwide chairman of Pharmaceuticals Paul Stoffels said: "The acquisition of Alios BioPharma further reflects our commitment to bringing together the best science from around the globe to address significant unmet need.

"Together we will further strengthen Janssen’s infectious diseases pipeline to address the needs of patients and families affected by some of the world’s most devastating diseases."

The acquisition also includes two early-stage compounds for hepatitis C (HCV) that could potentially improve Janssen’s current HCV portfolio.

In this transaction, Goldman, Sachs & Co. acted as exclusive financial advisor and Latham & Watkins as legal advisor to Alios BioPharma.

Image: Johnson & Johnson world headquarters in New Brunswick, New Jersey, US. Photo: courtesy of Johnson & Johnson.