Forbion Announces Second Exit from Forbion Growth Fund III Following $2.2 Billion Acquisition of RAPT Therapeutics by GSK

Core Insights - GSK has agreed to acquire RAPT Therapeutics from Forbion Growth Fund III for a total transaction value of $2.2 billion, marking a significant strategic move in the life sciences sector [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - The acquisition of RAPT Therapeutics represents the second exit for Forbion Growth Fund III, following the previous acquisition of Astria Therapeutics by BioCryst for $920 million in October 2025, indicating strong momentum for the fund [2]. - The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, pending customary conditions [5]. Group 2: RAPT Therapeutics and Its Pipeline - RAPT's lead therapeutic candidate, ozureprubart, is a long-acting monoclonal antibody aimed at neutralizing IgE, which is crucial in severe allergic diseases. This candidate has the potential to significantly change the treatment landscape for allergies and immunologic conditions, including chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) [3]. - Ozureprubart is currently in late-stage clinical development, with a Phase 2b trial ongoing for food allergies and a Phase 3 trial for CSU expected to start in 2026 [3]. Group 3: Forbion's Investment Strategy - Forbion Growth Fund III focuses on backing differentiated, late-stage assets that have clear clinical value and strategic relevance, demonstrating a disciplined approach to capital deployment in public markets [4]. - The successful outcome of this acquisition highlights the importance of early engagement, active ownership, and a long-term perspective in building positions in high-quality companies [4].