Gilead Agrees to Acquire PepStar’s Oral IL-23R Program for $1.275B

Gilead agreed to acquire PepStar Therapeutics Limited’s oral IL-23R inhibitor program. The program’s lead candidate, HCXT-2001, is in Phase 1. IL-23R is a clinically validated target for immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.

The $1.275 billion represents upfront cash consideration, subject to customary adjustments, and is payable at closing. Gilead expects the transaction to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to customary conditions. The deal remains pending.