GSK Adopts an Orphan

Last week's deal between GlaxoSmithKline plc and Prosensa B.V. focusing on RNA-modulating therapeutics in Duchenne muscular dystrophy is not a signal that GSK intends to move headlong into the Orphan drug space. Rather, the pharma is accessing what it sees as a potentially productive platform technology, while the Orphan diseases focus is an interesting by-product that fits GSK's mantra on unmet needs.

GSK CEO Andrew Witty is on record as stressing the need to focus on delivering "more products of value," while recognizing that up to half of the company's future pipeline is likely to derive from external alliances...