Gilead Agrees to Acquire HCXT-2001 Oral IL-23R Inhibitor Program for $1.275 Billion Upfront

Gilead has agreed with PepStar Therapeutics to acquire its oral IL-23R inhibitor program, including HCXT-2001, a clinical-stage, half-life-extended oral cyclic peptide IL-23R inhibitor. Gilead sees potential for it as a monotherapy or combined with emvistegrast in IBD. Gilead gains global development rights and will pay $1.275 billion upfront at closing, expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.