Rohto takes control of Okinawa marine biotech OPBio

What's the deal? Rohto PharmaceuticalDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → said on August 4 it has acquired shares in OP Bio Factory (OPBioDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →), making the Okinawa-based marine biotechnology company a group subsidiary. The move is aimed at strengthening R&D involving marine biological resources.

What's the endgame? OPBio specialises in marine biological research. By bringing it in-house, Rohto gains direct access to that expertise and the raw resources that underpin it.

The signal: Marine biotechnology is a niche but growing source of novel compounds, and Rohto's decision to secure a controlling stake — rather than a partnership — points to how established pharma players are locking down speciality R&D capabilities in-house.

Read more: pj.jiho.jp

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