RPTX Stock Surges on Gilead Deal: Repare Therapeutics Secures $30M for Polymerase Theta Program

Repare Therapeutics Inc. (RPTX) has closed a major portfolio deal with Gilead Sciences, Inc. (GILD), marking a significant financial milestone for the precision oncology-focused clinical-stage company. The agreement centers on the acquisition of RP-3467, a small-molecule inhibitor targeting polymerase theta ATPase—a synthetic lethality target particularly relevant for patients carrying BRCA mutations and related genomic alterations. The polymerase theta symbol θ represents this critical DNA repair mechanism that has become a focal point in modern cancer research.

Deal Structure and Financial Impact

Under the definitive agreement, Repare will receive total compensation of up to $30 million, structured as a $25 million cash payment upfront and an additional $5 million contingent on successful technology transfer completion. This represents Repare’s most substantial portfolio transaction to date in 2025, following two earlier deals completed during the year.

The immediate cash infusion strengthens Repare’s financial position ahead of its pending strategic acquisition by Xeno Therapeutics. Shareholders stand to receive approximately $2.20 per share upon closing, based on current valuation estimates.

Clinical Development and Therapeutic Potential

RP-3467 is currently being evaluated through the POLAR Phase 1 clinical trial, which investigates the compound’s efficacy both as a monotherapy and in combination with olaparib. The trial focuses on advanced-stage malignancies including ovarian, breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancers—indications where polymerase theta inhibition has demonstrated promising therapeutic potential.

CEO Steve Forte stated, “This collaboration represents an important validation of RP-3467’s scientific merit and brings together Gilead’s oncology development capabilities with our innovative polymerase theta program to potentially create a best-in-class therapeutic option.”

Market Response and Stock Performance

Investor enthusiasm was evident in market reaction, with RPTX trading at $2.62 in pre-market sessions—a gain of 20.73% and marking a new 52-week high. Over the past 12 months, the stock has ranged between $0.89 and $2.30, reflecting the volatility characteristic of clinical-stage biotech companies.

The transaction underscores Gilead’s expanding commitment to oncology research and the growing strategic focus on synthetic lethality approaches, while providing Repare near-term liquidity as the company pursues its broader merger transaction with Xeno Therapeutics.