Shire appoints head of mucopolysaccharide franchise

Shire has named Soren Tulstrup as senior vice-president and leader of the mucopolysaccharides (MPS) franchise at its Shire Human Genetic Therapies division.

Mr Tulstrup is the former president and chief executive officer of Santaris Pharma, while previous employers include Merck Sharp and Dohme, Sandoz and Abbott Laboratories.

In his new role, he will be responsible for developing a global strategy for the MPS franchise that includes both commercial and pipeline products, while also helping to offer guidance on the development of Shire's rare disease portfolio.

The newly-appointed business head offers more than 20 years of pharmaceutical industry expertise to Shire.

Sylvie Gregoire, president of Shire Human Genetic Therapies, said: "We believe Soren's extensive global experience will be invaluable in maximising the full potential of the MPS franchise, as we provide therapies to patients with rare conditions that enable them to lead better lives."

Last month, the company announced that its Advanced BioHealing division is being renamed as Shire Regenerative Medicine as it seeks to strengthen its corporate branding.