Gilead snaps up Sprint’s TREX1 immunotherapy programme for $400m

Core Insights - Gilead Sciences has acquired rights to Sprint Bioscience's preclinical oncology program for up to $400 million, significantly boosting Sprint's stock by over 110% [1][4] - The deal includes an upfront payment of $14 million for the TREX1 blocker, a novel immunotherapy approach, with potential additional payments of up to $386 million based on regulatory and commercial milestones [1][2] Company Developments - Sprint's CEO stated the decision to sell the program was aimed at pursuing more flexible, value-driven exit opportunities [2] - The TREX1 inhibitor is designed to enhance immune response while inhibiting tumor cell growth, with preclinical data supporting its efficacy in boosting type I interferon signaling [3] Industry Context - Gilead's acquisition is part of a broader strategy in the oncology sector, having made six deals in this area in 2025, including a $750 million licensing agreement with Kymera Therapeutics [5] - The oncology sector remains a focal point for pharmaceutical companies, with 2,707 deals recorded in 2025, indicating a strong market interest [6]