By Fineline Cube 
UK biopharma GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK, NYSE: GSK) has initiated a breakup with Ideaya Biosciences (NASDAQ: IDYA), terminating their 2020 licensing agreement and returning two clinical‑stage synthetic lethality programs. The termination takes effect 90 days after written notice, with GSK transferring the remaining Werner Helicase and MAT2A assets back to Ideaya.
Transaction Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Original Agreement | 2020 synthetic lethality collaboration |
| Termination Date | 90 days following GSK’s written notice (effective March 2026) |
| Assets Returned | Two clinical programs: Pol Theta Helicase inhibitor and MAT2A inhibitor |
| Programs Exiting | All three original assets (Werner Helicase already wound down) |
| Financial Terms | No further financial obligations disclosed; original deal included undisclosed upfront and milestones |
Asset Portfolio Status
| Program | Target | Stage | Status Post‑Termination |
|---|---|---|---|
| Werner Helicase | WRN (synthetic lethal in MSI‑H tumors) | Clinical | Previously returned; Ideaya retains full rights |
| Pol Theta Helicase | POLQ (synthetic lethal in HRD tumors) | Phase 1/2 | Transfer to Ideaya by March 2026 |
| MAT2A | Methionine adenosyltransferase 2a | Pre‑clinical | Transfer to Ideaya by March 2026 |
Strategic Implications
| Party | Impact |
|---|---|
| GSK | Portfolio rationalization; focus on internal oncology pipeline (including BCMA, GPRC5D assets); reduces R&D burn on early‑stage synthetic lethality programs |
| Ideaya | Regains full global control of Pol Theta and MAT2A programs; can pursue new partnerships or self‑fund development; potential to monetize via alternative pharma collaborations |
Market Context
Synthetic lethality represents a $5‑7 billion global market opportunity, anchored by PARP inhibitors. Next‑generation programs targeting Werner, Pol Theta, and MAT2A aim to address HRD‑positive and MSI‑H tumors resistant to existing therapies. Ideaya’s regained assets position it to capture renewed investor interest in precision oncology partnerships.
Forward‑Looking Statements
This brief contains forward‑looking statements regarding the termination timeline, asset transfer completion, and Ideaya’s future partnership strategy. Actual results may differ due to regulatory complexities, competitive dynamics, or changes in strategic priorities.-Fineline Info & Tech