NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. — Johnson & Johnson plans to buy Alios BioPharma Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing therapies for viral diseases, for $1.75 billion in cash.

J&J said Tuesday that the acquisition will bolster its current pipeline for viral diseases. The agreement will bring Alios’ portfolio of potential therapeutics for viral infections, including compound AL-8176, an orally administered antiviral therapy now in phase-two studies for the treatment of infants with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

"We are excited that this acquisition will enable us to explore treatment options for a number of viral infections, including RSV, the last of the major pediatric diseases with no available preventive therapy," stated William Hait, global head of research and development for Janssen Pharmaceutical Cos., a J&J subsidiary. "AL-8176 complements our existing early-stage portfolio for RSV, which aims to prevent and treat this disease, the leading cause of acute lower respiratory infection in children under the age of 5."

Pending regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions, the transaction is expected to close during the fourth quarter.

"Alios BioPharma’s pipeline is closely aligned with our vision to continue to address important unmet medical needs through scientific innovation," commented Johan Van Hoof, global head of infectious diseases and vaccines at Janssen. "This acquisition will allow us to combine their innovative compounds with our vast experience in viral diseases to deliver novel medicines and treatment options for patients worldwide."