The early-stage assets are no longer being pursued by Novartis.

Amid a shakeup of its executive team, including the departure of its R&D head, Gilead Sciences continues to pursue deals designed to expand its pipeline.

The most recent is the licensing of early-stage candidates from Novartis. The three preclinical programs, which Novartis has decided not to pursue any further, include antiviral agents with the potential to treat human rhinovirus, influenza and herpes.

Gilead made an undisclosed upfront fee to Novartis and agreed to pay up to $291 million in additional milestone payments, as well as royalties on any sales that are realized for the candidates. With the acquisition of these three candidates, Gilead hopes to develop new treatments for viruses with therapeutic options, according to the outgoing CSO and head of R&D John McHutchison.