Galapagos is initiating Phase I clinical trials of GLPG0634, a small-molecule drug to treat arthritis, having acquired full rights for the drug from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).

GLPG0634 is an orally-available, novel candidate drug developed by Galapagos in collaboration with GSK.

The candidate has demonstrated excellent activity in biochemical studies and in vivo models of rheumatoid arthritis, and has successfully completed pre-clinical development.

Galapagos re-acquired the rights to GLPG0634 from GSK for an undisclosed amount. The company will initiate clinical development of the candidate without any further involvement from GSK.