Gilead and LEO Pharma Unite to Advance STAT6 for Inflammatory Diseases

Gilead Sciences, Inc. and LEO Pharma announced a strategic alliance aimed at speeding up the development and marketing of LEO Pharma’s small molecule oral STAT6 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 6) initiatives for the possible treatment of patients with inflammatory diseases.

STAT6 is the particular transcription factor necessary for the signaling of IL-4 and IL-13 cytokines, which are clinically recognized targets for Th2-mediated inflammatory disorders, including atopic dermatitis, asthma, and COPD, among others. Focusing on STAT6 has demonstrated promise in preclinical studies to address a wide range of patients and offer an oral option for those receiving injectable biologics currently.

Through this collaboration, Gilead will obtain LEO Pharma’s full range of preclinical oral STAT6 small molecule inhibitors and targeted protein degraders. Gilead will spearhead additional development for the oral programs, whereas LEO Pharma will take charge of developing potential topical formulations of STAT6 inhibitors.

“As we continue to expand our inflammation portfolio, we're committed to developing next-generation therapies to support long-term remission in patients with inflammatory diseases through mechanisms that block major pathogenic pathways, eliminate pathogenic cells, tolerize the immune system, and restore cell function,” said Flavius Martin, M.D., Executive Vice President, Research, Gilead Sciences. “By partnering with LEO Pharma, we hope to explore the potential of the STAT6 pathway to bring forward an oral option for patients suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions.”