Roche to acquire Spark Therapeutics

Roche has announced its acquisition of Spark Therapeutics at a price of US$ 114.50 per share. Spark Therapeutics is committed to discovering, developing and delivering gene therapies for genetic diseases. Its lead clinical assets are SPK-8011, a novel gene therapy for the treatment of haemophilia A, and SPK-8016 for the haemophilia A inhibitor population. Spark Therapeutics CEO, Jeffrey D. Marrazzo, said: “As the only biotechnology company that has successfully commercialised a gene therapy for a genetic disease in the US, we have built unmatched competencies in the discovery, development and delivery of genetic medicines. But the needs of patients and families living with genetic diseases are immediate and their needs vast. With its worldwide reach and extensive resources, Roche will help us accelerate the development of more gene therapies for more patients for more diseases and further expedite our vision of a world where no life is limited by genetic disease.”

Roche CEO, Severin Schwan, said: “Spark Therapeutics’ proven expertise in the entire gene therapy value chain may offer important new opportunities for the treatment of serious diseases. In particular, Spark Therapeutics’ haemophilia A programme could become a new therapeutic option for people living with this disease. We are also excited to continue the investments in Spark Therapeutics’ broad product portfolio and commitment to Philadelphia as a centre of excellence.”