Gilead’s $35M Herpes Deal with Assembly Biosciences and Recent FDA Approvals

Gilead Sciences exercised its option on December 22, 2025, to exclusively license two herpes simplex virus (HSV) helicase-primase inhibitors, ABI-1179 and ABI-5366, from Assembly Biosciences for recurrent genital herpes treatment.123

Gilead paid $35 million upfront, reflecting a $45 million option fee net of $10 million accelerated funding from a December 2024 amendment.134

Both assets are in phase 1b trials, showing strong antiviral activity, significant reduction in virus-positive lesions, and support for once-weekly oral dosing.12

Assembly Biosciences remains eligible for up to $330 million in regulatory and commercial milestones plus tiered royalties, with an option to share 40% of U.S. costs and profits.134

No recent FDA approvals for Boehringer Ingelheim or Roche are mentioned in the available search results.

Sources:

1. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/gilead-pays-35m-license-pair-hsv-assets-assembly-bio-pact

2. https://www.noahai.co/discover/article/14013

3. https://www.gilead.com/news/news-details/2025/gilead-sciences-exercises-option-to-license-assembly-biosciences-helicase-primase-inhibitor-programs-for-recurrent-genital-herpes

4. https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/gilead-exercises-option-for-assembly-bios-herpes-treatment-programs-93CH-4419305