<PAGE>
Exhibit 23.1
Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on
Form S-8 pertaining to the 2000 Equity Incentive Plan, the 2000 Employee Stock
Purchase Plan, the 2000 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Option Plan, the 1996
Stock Option Plan, the 1988 Stock Option Plan and certain non-plan stock option
agreements, of Telik, Inc., of our report dated February 25, 2000 with respect
to the financial statements of Telik, Inc. included in its Registration
Statement (Form S-1, No. 333-33868) filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission.
Palo Alto, California
August 29, 2000
