Dive Brief:
- Theraclone Sciences is a therapeutic antibody discovery and development company that participated in the discovery of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNabs).
- Theraclone relies on a proprietary technology -- I-STAR -- that allows for rapid testing to determine which antibodies have the most therapeutic potential.
- Gilead gave Theraclone an upfront payment of an undisclosed amount; Theraclone is eligible to receive additional payments after meeting specific milestones.
Dive Insight:
Gilead Sciences markets itself as a science-based company that shows a great deal of respect to its researchers -- and its pipeline reflects that approach.
Although Gilead has started to move into oncology, 86% of its revenues stem from antiviral sales, which totaled $9.3 billion in 2013. With patent expirations looming in the next 4 to 8 years, Gilead is focused on continuing to advance the treatment of HIV and other infectious disease. Collaborating with Theraclone is part of that strategy and has the potential to help both parties advance their bottom lines.