Human Genome Sciences To Cut 114 Jobs In October

ROCKVILLE, Md. (AP) -- Rockville-based Human Genome Sciences says it will be cutting 114 jobs.

The company told state regulators that it was undergoing an internal restructuring that will lead to the cuts at the end of October. British drug maker GlaxoSmithKline announced in July that it was acquiring the longtime partner in a $3.6 billion deal. HGS did not immediately respond Thursday to a telephone call seeking comment.

Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation spokeswoman Summar Goodman says the department has contacted the company to explain services available to employees losing their jobs.

HGS agreed to the acquisition following a prolonged battle that included a "poison pill" defense that would have diluted holdings for anyone trying to acquire 15 percent of the biotechnology company's stock without board approval.

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