Arrow Therapeutics

About Arrow Therapeutics

Arrow Therapeutics was a UK-based biotechnology firm that specialized in the discovery and development of antiviral therapies. The company was founded by Dr. Ken Powell, an expert virologist with extensive experience in both academia and the pharmaceutical industry, including senior roles at the Wellcome Foundation and as a Professor at University College London. His background in virology and drug development was central to the company's focus.

The firm concentrated on creating small molecule drugs with novel mechanisms of action to address significant unmet medical needs. Its primary research and development programs targeted viral diseases, most notably Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). This focus positioned the company in the anti-infective sector of the pharmaceutical market, aiming to provide new treatment options for healthcare professionals.

A significant milestone in the company's history was its acquisition by AstraZeneca in February 2007 for $150 million. This acquisition was a strategic move by AstraZeneca to bolster its anti-infective and antiviral pipeline. At the time of the acquisition, Arrow Therapeutics had several compounds in its portfolio, including two anti-HCV compounds targeting the NS5a protein, one of which was in Phase I clinical trials, and its most advanced compound, RSV604, for Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Following the acquisition, Arrow's London facility, with its 57 employees, was set to become a hub for AstraZeneca's antiviral discovery activities. Dr. Ken Powell, who served as CEO, eventually stepped down from his role as Head of Arrow following the integration into AstraZeneca.