Gilead Sciences, Inc. recently announced an agreement to acquire Kite Pharma, Inc. for $11.9 billion.  According to the announcement, Kite Pharma focuses on cell therapy treatment for cancer, which involves the genetic engineering and reintroduction of a patient’s own cells to better identify and combat cancers.

(Graphic from Kite Pharma website)

With the announcement, Gilead’s President and CEO stated that “cell therapy has advanced very quickly, to the point where the science and technology have opened a clear path toward a potential cure for patients[,]” and the acquisition “establishes Gilead as a leader in cellular therapy[.]”  The announcement notes that Kite Pharma’s treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma is currently under review by the FDA, with a target action date of November 29, 2017.

Kite Pharma, Inc. is based in Santa Monica, CA and Gilead Sciences, Inc. has its U.S. headquarters in Foster City, CA.