Gilead Sciences announced on Apr. 7 the acquisition of German antibody-drug conjugate specialist Tubulis GmbH for $3.15 billion in cash, with up to an additional $1.85 billion in potential milestone payments.
The move is seen as part of Gilead's strategy to strengthen its oncology pipeline and secure advanced antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technology. The company said Tubulis will operate as a dedicated ADC research and development organization within Gilead, with the transaction expected to close in the second quarter of this year.
RBC Capital Markets analysts said the acquisition "represents a strategically sound bolt-on that addresses GILD’s oncology pipeline growth needs while securing differentiated next-gen ADC platform capabilities." Gilead CEO Daniel O’Day called it "a significant milestone in Gilead’s progress in oncology." O’Day also said, "This alliance has given us strong conviction in their programs and research capabilities."
Tubulis previously raised €344 million ($401 million) last October to advance pivotal trials for its lead candidate TUB-040, including studies for ovarian cancer and expansion into other solid tumor indications. At the European Society for Medical Oncology Congress in October 2025, data from a Phase 1/2a trial showed an average overall response rate of 59% for TUB-040 in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.
Gilead highlighted both TUB-040 and another candidate, TUB-030, noting that they have demonstrated promising initial clinical data across various solid tumor types. The company has prior experience working with Tubulis through a partnership formed in December 2024 focused on developing ADCs against unnamed solid tumor targets.
This acquisition follows other recent moves by Gilead to expand its presence in cancer therapies and immunology. In February, it acquired Arcellx ahead of possible FDA approval of multiple myeloma treatment anito-cel later this year. Last month, Gilead also agreed to acquire Ouro Medicines for up to $2 billion.
