Rigel Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:RIGL) is a clinical-stage biotechnology company headquartered in South San Francisco, California, focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of novel small-molecule drugs targeting signaling pathways involved in inflammation, oncology and immunology. Since its founding in 1996, Rigel has built a robust discovery platform centered on kinase inhibitors and other enzyme modulators, leveraging proprietary chemistry and target-validation approaches to advance programs from early research through clinical development.
The company’s lead marketed product is fostamatinib (Tavalisse), an oral spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) inhibitor approved for the treatment of adult patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Tavalisse has also been studied in additional immuno-inflammatory conditions. Beyond its marketed therapy, Rigel maintains a diversified pipeline that includes selective inhibitors of kinases such as RIPK1 and IRAK4, as well as novel small molecules aimed at oncology targets. Several of these programs are advancing through Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical trials, either internally or in collaboration with partners.
Rigel’s research and development efforts extend across North America and collaborate with global biopharmaceutical companies. The company has forged strategic partnerships and licensing agreements to optimize late-stage development and commercialization, notably expanding its geographic reach in Europe and Asia. Rigel’s scientific teams operate from cutting-edge laboratory facilities in California, enabling rapid translation of laboratory findings into clinical candidates.
Leadership at Rigel is led by President and Chief Executive Officer Pablo Ledesma, Ph.D., who has guided the company through key regulatory milestones and commercial launches. Supported by a seasoned management team with deep expertise in drug discovery, clinical development and commercial strategy, Rigel remains committed to advancing its portfolio of targeted therapies to address unmet medical needs in immune-related disorders and oncology.
