Activin receptor-like kinase 5 (ALK5) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family associated with tumor development and progression that impacts cancer immune response within the tumor microenvironment.

Carna Biosciences Inc. and Sumitomo Pharma Co. Ltd. have identified dual-specificity tyrosine-(Y)-phosphorylation regulated kinase (DYRK) inhibitors reported to be useful for the treatment of cancer, depression, epilepsy, dementia, psychosis, thyroid and gastrointestinal disorders, among others.

Carna Biosciences Inc. has synthesized 1,2-diaminobenzimidazole derivatives acting as stimulator of interferon genes protein (STING) antagonists reported to be useful for the treatment of cancer, viral infection, neurodegeneration and autoimmune, inflammatory, metabolic, eye and cardiovascular disorders, among others.

Japanese biopharma Carna Biosciences Inc. and Gilead Sciences Inc., of Foster City, Calif., have signed a $470 million R&D collaboration to develop and commercialize small-molecule compounds in immuno-oncology. Under the agreement, Gilead will license worldwide rights to develop and commercialize inhibitors against an undisclosed immuno-oncology target from Kobe, Japan-based Carna. Additionally, Gilead will have access to Carna's lipid kinase drug discovery platform.