These molecules, the partners said, have the potential to conditionally target immune cells related to disease pathways without activating other immune cells that may create adverse events.

Under the three collaborations, Tentarix will receive upfront payments and an equity investment from Gilead totaling $66 million. In addition, Gilead has the option to acquire up to three select Tentarix subsidiaries containing the programs developed under the collaborations for $80 million per subsidiary.

“At Gilead, a key area of our research strategy is addressing immune dysregulation in oncology and inflammatory diseases,” said Flavius Martin, executive vice president Research at Gilead Sciences. “This early-stage collaboration with Tentarix will be highly synergistic to our ongoing efforts, building upon our growing strength in protein therapeutics, and may provide access to next-generation, multi-specific biologics.”

“This collaboration is part of our strategy to join forces with innovators, like Gilead, who can help us rapidly advance new medicines to the clinic,” added Paul Grayson, President and CEO of Tentarix.