Gilead Sciences and Kymera Therapeutics Sign Exclusive Agreement to Develop New CDK2-Targeting Cancer Treatment
Thursday, June 26, 2025
Gilead Sciences and Kymera Therapeutics have entered into an exclusive option and licence agreement aimed at advancing the development and commercialisation of a novel oral molecular glue degrader (MGD) programme. This programme targets cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), a protein linked to tumour growth, with potential applications in treating breast cancer and other solid tumours.
Unlike traditional CDK2 inhibitors that block the protein’s activity but may affect other related proteins and cause side effects, MGDs work by removing CDK2 from cells entirely. This selective approach may offer safer and more effective treatment options, especially for cancers that rely heavily on CDK2.
The agreement brings together Kymera’s expertise in targeted protein degradation and Gilead’s focus on advancing innovative oncology therapies. The CDK2 degraders developed under this programme have shown promising preclinical results and could provide new treatment options for patients with limited choices under current therapies.
Under the deal, Kymera stands to receive up to $750 million in total payments. This includes an upfront and potential option payment of up to $85 million. The company is also eligible for tiered royalties on future net sales, ranging from high single-digit to mid-teens percentages.
Kymera will lead all research activities related to the CDK2 programme. Should Gilead choose to exercise its option, it will assume responsibility for global development, manufacturing, and commercialisation of any resulting products.
This collaboration is expected to reduce Gilead’s GAAP and non-GAAP earnings per share in 2025 by approximately $0.02 to $0.03, due to acquired in-process research and development costs.
Gilead, along with its Kite Oncology unit, continues to invest in a range of advanced cancer treatment platforms—from small molecules and antibody-drug conjugates to cell therapies—with the aim of closing key gaps in cancer care.
Source: businesswire.com
