Kymera Therapeutics has announced that Gilead Sciences has exercised its option to license KT-200, a first-in-class oral CDK2 molecular glue degrader, triggering a USD 45 million milestone payment. The total potential value of the agreement could reach USD 750 million, including upfront and milestone payments, plus tiered royalties on future net sales. Gilead will assume responsibility for advancing the candidate into investigational new drug (IND)-enabling studies, with the goal of submitting an IND application in 2027.

KT-200 is designed to selectively degrade, rather than merely inhibit, the CDK2 protein, a key driver of tumour growth. This approach aims to provide a more precise and potentially safer oral treatment option for cancers dependent on CDK2 activity, such as certain types of advanced breast cancer. Preclinical data demonstrated potent CDK2 degradation, anti-tumour activity in models with CCNE1 amplification, and promising brain penetration. The deal grants Gilead exclusive global development, manufacturing and commercialisation rights.

PharmCube's NextBiopharm® database shows that this has been one of Gilead's most active months in terms of deal-making activity with tree transactions, coming second only to June 2019's four deals. Click here to request a free trial for NextBiopharm®.