Gilead Sciences Inc (NASDAQ:GILD, ETR:GIS) and Kymera Therapeutics (NASDAQ:KYMR) have entered into an exclusive option and license agreement focused on developing a novel cancer treatment targeting cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), a protein that plays a key role in tumor growth.
This collaboration aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of a new class of drugs called molecular glue degraders (MDGs), which work by selectively removing the CDK2 protein from cancer cells rather than merely inhibiting its function.
This type of therapy has broad oncology potential, including in breast cancer and other solid tumors, the companies said.
“MGDs are opening exciting new possibilities in cancer research by offering a way to eliminate disease-driving proteins rather than just blocking them,” Gilead executive vice president, research Dr Flavius Martin said.
“This mechanism aligns within our oncology scientific framework where we evaluate therapeutic agents that selectively target and kill cancer cells with minimal impact on healthy tissue.”
Dr Nello Mainolfi, Kymera CEO, expressed excitement about working with Gilead to develop and commercialize this program.
“Our highly specific, orally active, CDK2 molecular glue degraders have demonstrated a compelling preclinical profile and have the potential to transform the therapeutic landscape for breast cancer patients and other tumor types with high unmet medical need,” Dr Mainolfi said.
Under the terms of the deal, Kymera will lead all research activities related to the CDK2 program, while Gilead has the option to exclusively license the program globally for development, manufacturing, and commercialization.
Kymera is eligible to receive up to $750 million in total payments, which includes up to $85 million in upfront and option exercise payments, plus tiered royalties on net product sales ranging from high single-digit to mid-teens percentages.