Gilead Sciences and Kymera Therapeutics Partner to Develop Novel Oral CDK2 Degraders for Cancer Treatment
Thursday, June 26, 2025
Gilead Sciences and Kymera Therapeutics have entered into an exclusive option and license agreement focused on advancing a new molecular glue degrader (MGD) programme targeting cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2).
This collaboration aims to develop oral treatments for cancers such as breast cancer and other solid tumours, where CDK2 plays a significant role in tumour growth.
Unlike traditional CDK2 inhibitors that block the protein’s function and may affect similar proteins—leading to unwanted side effects—CDK2-directed MGDs are designed to remove the protein entirely from cancer cells. This targeted approach is expected to deliver more precise and safer treatment options, potentially improving outcomes for patients with limited therapeutic choices.
The agreement marks Kymera’s first publicly disclosed molecular glue programme. Preclinical data have shown that Kymera’s oral CDK2 degraders exhibit strong specificity and potency, suggesting a promising profile for future clinical development.
It also aligns with Gilead’s broader oncology strategy, which includes a growing portfolio of next-generation therapies spanning small molecules, antibody-drug conjugates, and cell therapies developed through Kite Oncology.
This strategic partnership reflects both companies' ongoing commitment to advancing targeted therapies that offer better safety and efficacy profiles.
Source: gilead.com
