Gilead Sciences, a global leader in biopharmaceutical innovation, has entered an exclusive option and license agreement with Tubulis, a pioneer in antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technology, to develop ADCs targeting solid tumors. The collaboration grants Gilead access to Tubulis' proprietary Tubutecan and Alco5 platforms to create a Topoisomerase I inhibitor-based ADC with enhanced stability and reduced off-target toxicity. Tubulis will lead the discovery and early-stage development of the ADC candidate, leveraging its expertise in designing ADCs with durable on-tumor delivery. If Gilead exercises its licensing option, the company will assume responsibility for late-stage development and commercialization, with Tubulis eligible for milestone payments of up to $415 million and royalties on product sales.
Gilead, headquartered in Foster City, California, has a strong track record in advancing treatments for life-threatening diseases, including cancer, HIV, and viral hepatitis, and operates in over 35 countries. Tubulis, recognized for its innovative ADC platforms, is focused on developing next-generation therapeutics, with programs like TUB-040 and TUB-030 targeting ovarian, lung, and other cancers. Both companies share a vision of expanding the therapeutic potential of ADCs, aiming to address significant gaps in oncology care through this strategic collaboration.
