Pierre Fabre Laboratories Expands R&D Portfolio with New Drug Acquisitions

Pierre Fabre Laboratories Strengthens R&D Portfolio

Pierre Fabre Laboratories has made a significant move in its research and development strategy by acquiring global rights for two innovative cancer treatment candidates: PFL-721 and PFL-241. Previously known as STX-721 and STX-241, these drugs are promising options for addressing unmet medical needs in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

The acquisition was finalized as part of a deal with Antares Therapeutics, formerly known as Scorpion Therapeutics. The move not only consolidates Pierre Fabre's existing partnership with Antares but also enables the company to take full control of the clinical development of these two crucial drugs.

PFL-721 is a mutant-selective inhibitor targeting exon 20 of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and HER2 receptor. It is close to entering the dose optimization phase in its first human trial for patients with NSCLC. On the other hand, PFL-241 is a fourth-generation EGFR mutant-selective inhibitor designed to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, currently in the dose escalation phase of its initial trial for patients with the C797S mutation, a common resistance mutation in NSCLC.

According to recent studies, NSCLC represents the most prevalent type of lung cancer, with various mutations of the EGFR responsible for 14 to 38 percent of cases, depending on geographical location. This highlights the critical need for advanced treatments targeting these mutations.

Francesco Hofmann, Director of Research and Development at Pierre Fabre Medical Care, stated, "With this agreement with Antares, Pierre Fabre now holds global rights for all molecules in our R&D pipeline, including exarafenib, PFL-002 (previously VERT-002), PFL-721 and PFL-241. Our R&D team is fully committed to advancing the clinical development of these programs, aiming to provide innovative and differentiated precision treatments to patient populations with significant unmet needs."

This acquisition reflects Pierre Fabre's ongoing commitment to enhancing its R&D portfolio and the development of novel therapeutic options in oncology. The focus on mutant-selective inhibitors represents a strategic direction that aims to address specific mutations associated with NSCLC, offering hope for more effective and personalized treatment strategies.

As these compounds progress through clinical trials, Pierre Fabre continues to strengthen its position in the oncology space, underlining its dedication to improving patient outcomes through innovative therapies. The company's latest move is anticipated to not only accelerate development timelines but also expand its reach in the global pharmaceutical market dedicated to fighting cancer.

In conclusion, with PFL-721 and PFL-241, Pierre Fabre Laboratories is poised to make a significant impact on the treatment landscape for NSCLC, joining the ranks of pharmaceutical companies dedicated to precision medicine. As the clinical trials advance, the outcomes will be eagerly awaited by both the medical community and patients alike.