Pierre Fabre and Iktos Join Forces to Revolutionize Cancer Drug Discovery with AI

Collaborative Innovation in Oncology Research

In a significant advancement in the field of oncology, Pierre Fabre Laboratories and Iktos have forged a collaborative partnership aimed at revolutionizing drug discovery processes through integrated artificial intelligence (AI). This strategic alliance brings together Iktos's robust AI platform and Pierre Fabre's extensive expertise in medical research and development in oncology, marking a pivotal moment in their mission to enhance cancer treatment options.

Driving Forces Behind the Collaboration

Founded in 2016, Iktos has established itself as a global leader in AI-driven drug discovery and robotics. Their expertise in generative AI technology allows for the design and optimization of drug molecules in silico, addressing key success factors in drug discovery projects. In this collaboration, Iktos will utilize its generative design platform to expedite the identification of optimized small molecules targeting an undisclosed oncological target. Meanwhile, Pierre Fabre will contribute its deep-rooted knowledge of oncology research and preclinical development, guiding the selection and evaluation processes of candidate molecules.

Audrey Kauffmann, the head of data science and biometrics at Pierre Fabre Medical Care, expressed excitement about the partnership. "This collaboration with Iktos represents a crucial step in establishing an AI-powered research and development engine at Pierre Fabre. Integrating Iktos's technologies with our research platforms propels us toward achieving our data and AI strategy. This endeavor reflects our ambition to leverage cutting-edge innovations to enhance the quality and success rates of drug discovery, ultimately benefiting patients in oncology," she stated.

Enhancing Drug Discovery Efficiency

The financial details of the collaboration remain undisclosed; however, it comprises an initial payment alongside various milestone payments. Olivier Geneste, the head of drug discovery at Pierre Fabre Medical Care, highlighted the importance of the partnership: "We are thrilled to collaborate with Iktos in drug discovery. Their established expertise in generative AI coupled with automated chemistry is expected to help us accelerate and mitigate risks in developing innovative therapies targeting valuable oncological markers, addressing the unmet needs of cancer patients."

Yann Gaston-Mathé, co-founder and CEO of Iktos, also shared his enthusiasm. "We are excited to begin this collaboration with Pierre Fabre, a company renowned for its impressive experience in oncology. This partnership illustrates the potent synergy between Iktos's generative AI and automated chemistry technologies with Pierre Fabre's comprehensive scientific and clinical expertise. Together, we aim to create an optimal environment for rapidly advancing innovative small-molecule candidates in oncology, aiding in significant therapeutic advancements for patients globally."

Expanding Pierre Fabre's Oncology Pipeline

Pierre Fabre has been intensifying its focus on precision oncology, bolstering its research and development pipeline with multiple assets. For instance, PFL-241/STX-241 and PFL-721/STX-721, both selective mutant EGFR inhibitors, are currently being developed for non-small cell lung cancer patients with EGFR mutations. Additionally, PFL-002/VERT-002 is set to undergo clinical trials for solid tumors associated with genetic alterations in the MET receptor.

The pan-RAF inhibitor exarafenib is also under development to expand targeted therapy options for solid tumors induced by RAS/RAF mutations. The company is actively pursuing preclinical candidates for various oncological targets in collaboration with Vernalis Ltd., and another partnership with RedRidge Bio is in place to discover and develop biparatopic antibodies for several precision oncology targets, dermatology, and rare diseases.

Pierre Fabre's oncology portfolio, which is already aligned towards targeting BRAF, MEK, and HER2, has contributed significantly to its overall performance, generating €520 million in revenue from oncology in 2024, with 88% realized internationally.

The Future of Oncology Drug Development

With diverse therapeutic areas including oncology, dermatology, rare diseases, chronic diseases, and family health, Pierre Fabre continues to leverage its expertise in transforming cancer treatment options. Committed to advancing research, the company allocated €219 million for R&D in 2024, with a notable 60% dedicated to targeted therapies in oncology.

As both companies embark on this groundbreaking journey, the collaboration between Pierre Fabre and Iktos signifies a transformative step in the quest for innovative cancer therapies. By harnessing the power of AI and deep scientific knowledge, they are positioned to set new benchmarks in oncological drug development, ultimately striving to bring meaningful improvements to patient care worldwide.

For additional insights regarding this partnership and their portfolios, please visit Pierre Fabre or Iktos.