Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB (Sobi) has completed its acquisition of late-stage biotechnology company Arthrosi Therapeutics, expanding its footprint in the gout treatment space. With the transaction finalised, Sobi has acquired all outstanding shares and stock equivalents of Arthrosi.

The acquisition brings pozdeutinurad (AR882) into Sobi’s portfolio, an investigational, once-daily oral URAT1 inhibitor currently being evaluated in two fully enrolled global phase III clinical trials. The studies, REDUCE 1 and REDUCE 2, are assessing the therapy’s potential in managing progressive and tophaceous gout, with pivotal data anticipated in 2026.

Pozdeutinurad is designed as a next-generation, highly potent and selective URAT1 inhibitor aimed at lowering serum Uric Acid (sUA) levels. Phase II data demonstrated sustained uric acid reduction, dissolution of tophi and a favorable safety profile. If approved, the therapy could offer a potentially best-in-class treatment option for patients who remain sub-optimally treated with first-line urate-lowering therapies.

Arthrosi Therapeutics, headquartered in San Diego, has been focused on developing innovative treatments for progressive gout. Rights to pozdeutinurad in Greater China are held by ApicHope.

Gout, the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, is driven by elevated uric acid levels that lead to painful flares and, if untreated, can progress to chronic joint damage and tophi formation. Patients with uncontrolled gout also face increased risks of kidney disease and cardiovascular complications. Despite existing therapies, many patients fail to achieve target uric acid levels, highlighting the need for improved treatment options.

The acquisition pushes Sobi’s aim to advance innovative therapies for patients living with gout and strengthen its rare disease portfolio. Sobi currently employs approximately 1,900 people across Europe, North America, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia.