Johnson & Johnson to buy Alios BioPharma for $1.75bn

The acquisition, which will strengthen J&J’s existing pipeline in viral diseases, will include 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).

Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson global head of Research & Development William Hait said the company is happy that this acquisition will enable them to explore treatment options for a number of viral infections, including RSV, the last of the major pediatric diseases with no available preventive therapy.

"AL-8176 complements our existing early stage portfolio for RSV which aims to prevent and treat this disease, the leading cause of acute lower respiratory infection in children under the age of five," Hait said.

The transaction, expected to be closed during the fourth quarter of 2014, is subject to clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act and other customary closing conditions.

Janssen global head of Infectious Diseases and Vaccines Johan Van Hoof said Alios BioPharma’s pipeline is closely aligned with the company’s vision to continue to address important unmet medical needs through scientific innovation.

"This acquisition will allow us to combine their innovative compounds with our vast experience in viral diseases to deliver novel medicines and treatment options for patients worldwide."