Singapore: GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has acquired Okairos, a specialist developer of vaccine platform technologies for $325 million in cash. Swiss-based Okairos has developed a novel vaccine platform technology which is expected to play an important role in GSK's development of new prophylactic vaccines (designed to prevent infection) as well as new classes of therapeutic vaccines (designed to treat infection or disease).

Okairos' technology complements GSK's existing vaccine technology and expertise, and will enable GSK to continue its work developing the next generation of vaccines. The deal also includes a small number of early stage assets. 

Under the terms of the transaction, GSK will take full ownership of the company and assume ownership of early stage assets for diseases such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), malaria, tuberculosis, ebola and HIV, supplementing the company's existing vaccines pipeline. 

Mr Christophe Weber, president, GSK Vaccines, said that, "This is a fantastic opportunity for patients and our research organization as it is expected to contribute to the development efforts for an exciting new generation of vaccines, building on the excellent science and expertise of both companies."

Mr Riccardo Cortese, CEO and founder, Okairos, said that, "I am extremely pleased with this agreement, which will enable GSK to build on the hard work we have put into developing our vaccines and platforms to the stage that they are at today. With its considerable resources and knowhow, I am confident that GSK is best-placed to maximize this opportunity to potentially transform the vaccines landscape."