GSK and Vir Biotechnology Join Forces

GSK and Vir Biotechnology will conduct joint research and development to develop solutions against all coronavirus variants, including SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19. Within the framework of this collaboration, Vir Biotechnology's antibody platform will be used. GSK will leverage its expertise in genomics, focused on mapping the sequences of all genes present in an organism's DNA, as well as CRISPR and artificial intelligence technologies that enable additions, deletions or modifications to various sections of genes and DNA sequences. The companies will combine their expertise in research toward coronavirus vaccines. Within the framework of this collaboration, the target is to rapidly advance to phase 2 clinical trials within the next three to five months. Dr. Hal Barron, Head of GSK's Research and Development Science Division, commented: "Vir's exceptional antibody platform has achieved significant success in developing antibodies for treatments of multiple pathogens, and will play a highly complementary role given our research and development approach's focus on immunology science. I am greatly excited about the two companies combining their capabilities and commitment to develop solutions against COVID-19 and other diseases." Dr. George Scangos, CEO of Vir Biotechnology, stated: "It is becoming increasingly clear that multiple treatment options will be necessary to halt the coronavirus pandemic. The likelihood that the current coronavirus outbreak will not be the last significantly influences our scientific approach. In implementing this strategy, we are pleased to combine our strengths with GSK, which has a similar research and development strategy, deep vaccine experience, and impressive global reach in delivering medicines to people worldwide." In addition to all this, to gain access to Vir's technology, GSK will make an equity investment of USD 250 million in Vir Biotechnology.