Strategic Acquisition Enhances Immunotherapy Pipeline

Sun Pharma announced the acquisition of Checkpoint Therapeutics, a Nasdaq-listed biotech specializing in immunotherapy and targeted oncology. The deal, finalized in March 2025, includes upfront and milestone payments totaling up to $355 million. Checkpoint is known for UNLOXCYT™ (cosibelimab-ipdl), the first FDA-approved anti-PD-L1 treatment for metastatic or locally advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC).

Sun Pharma aims to leverage Checkpoint’s proprietary platform and pipeline to accelerate development and commercialization of next-generation checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies. The acquisition is part of Sun Pharma’s broader strategy to build a diversified oncology portfolio and expand its global footprint.

Expanding Global Reach and Clinical Capabilities

Checkpoint’s commercial presence in the U.S., along with ongoing clinical trials for multiple immuno-oncology indications, will provide Sun Pharma with significant operational and R&D synergies. Sun Pharma plans to integrate Checkpoint’s teams and infrastructure to enhance global clinical development programs, aiming to advance new compounds through late-stage trials and regulatory approvals.

Market and Competitive Impact

The acquisition strengthens Sun Pharma’s market position amid increasing competition in the immunotherapy space. With immune checkpoint inhibitors becoming standard of care in multiple cancers, adding cosibelimab and pipeline candidates augments Sun Pharma’s ability to address high unmet medical needs. Industry analysts view the deal favorably, highlighting its potential to accelerate innovation and expand patient access across emerging and developed markets.

Outlook: Driving Innovation and Patient Access

Sun Pharma’s acquisition of Checkpoint symbolizes growing convergence between global pharma and biotech innovators. By integrating complementary expertise and assets, the company is poised to advance breakthroughs in oncology treatment. Patient advocacy groups welcomed the move, noting its promise to bring novel, effective immunotherapies to more cancer patients worldwide.