SPR2015

September 28, 2026: Merck (NYSE: MRK) and SciBrunch Therapeutics announced a closed exclusive global licensing deal for SPR2015, a preclinical oral KRAS G12D (ON) inhibitor. Merck gains worldwide rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize the program; SciBrunch receives $400 million upfront and is eligible for development, commercialization, and other milestone payments, with total potential deal value of $2.13 billion.

SPR2015 is described as a novel molecular glue KRAS G12D (ON) inhibitor for cancers with KRAS G12D mutations, including pancreatic, colorectal, and lung tumors. The release says it has shown nanomolar antiproliferative activity in multiple KRAS G12D-mutant cell lines with selectivity over KRAS wildtype cells, and monotherapy antitumor efficacy in multiple CDX/PDX models. Preclinical data were presented at the 2026 AACR Annual Meeting.

For Merck, the transaction is a pipeline/business development catalyst rather than a clinical or regulatory milestone. Merck said it will record a $400 million pre-tax charge, about $0.13 per share, in Q3 2026 related to the transaction.