#France #Pierre Fabre #Iktos #oncology research #Castres

A Strategic Collaboration in Oncology

Pierre Fabre Laboratories and Iktos have announced an innovative collaboration designed to revolutionize drug discovery in the oncology field. This partnership aims to leverage advanced artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate the development of low-molecular-weight drug candidates, marking a significant step forward in the fight against cancer.

The Initiative's Objectives

The collaboration seeks to combine Pierre Fabre’s substantial expertise in oncology research and preclinical development with Iktos's cutting-edge AI-driven generative design platform. This integrated approach is expected to streamline the discovery process of optimized drug candidates targeting a specific, yet undisclosed, oncological target. By merging their respective strengths in computational design, medicinal chemistry, biology, and medical sciences, the companies aim to enhance the effectiveness and speed of drug development.

Details of the Collaboration

The agreement states that Iktos will utilize its AI platform to propel the discovery phase of new drug candidates. Conversely, Pierre Fabre will contribute its in-depth knowledge in evaluating and developing these molecules, ensuring they meet necessary clinical and regulatory standards. Although the financial terms of the partnership remain undisclosed, it is noted to include an upfront payment as well as several milestone payments tied to specific objectives.

Audrey Kauffmann, the Head of Data Science and Biostatistics at Pierre Fabre Medical Care RD, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, "This partnership marks a critical milestone towards establishing an AI-enhanced Research and Development framework at Pierre Fabre. By integrating Iktos's generative AI technology with our research platforms, we advance our data and AI strategy, aiming to improve drug discovery quality and success rates while making meaningful progress for oncology patients."

Advancements in Oncology

Olivier Geneste, Head of Drug Research at Pierre Fabre Medical Care RD, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, "We believe that Iktos, with its expertise in generative AI and automated chemistry techniques, will help us accelerate the development of innovative therapies for a promising oncological target, thereby reducing risks to meet the unsatisfied needs of cancer patients."

Yann Gaston-Mathé, Co-Founder and CEO of Iktos, also shared enthusiasm, noting, "Partnering with Pierre Fabre Laboratories, a renowned entity in oncology, exemplifies how well our generative AI technologies can complement Pierre Fabre’s robust scientific and clinical expertise. Together, we aim to create an optimal environment to advance new low-molecular-weight drug candidates swiftly and effectively, delivering groundbreaking therapeutic advancements to patients worldwide."

The Oncology Pipeline of Pierre Fabre Laboratories

Pierre Fabre is expanding its focus on precision oncology, enhancing its R&D pipeline with multiple emerging products. Notably, they are developing PFL-241 and PFL-721, mutant-selective EGFR inhibitors for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) driven by EGFR mutations. Additionally, PFL-002 is currently in clinical trials for solid tumors associated with MET gene alterations. Other initiatives include developing the pan-RAF inhibitor Exarafenib to push targeted therapies for RAS/RAF-driven solid tumors.

Moreover, in collaboration with Vernalis Ltd., they are identifying preclinical candidates for various oncological targets. A partnership with RedRidge Bio is also ongoing to develop biparatopic antibodies targeting multiple molecules within precision oncology, dermatology, and rare diseases. These recent scholarly additions complement Pierre Fabre’s existing precision oncology portfolio, which already targets BRAF, MEK, HER2, and EBV-related post-transplant lymphoproliferative conditions.

About Pierre Fabre Laboratories

As the second-largest dermocosmetics company globally, Pierre Fabre Laboratories stands out as one of Europe’s leading pharmaceutical laboratories. Its extensive portfolio encompasses renowned dermocosmetic brands like Eau Thermale Avène, Ducray, Klorane, A-Derma, René Furterer, and more. The company primarily operates in five therapeutic areas: oncology, dermatology, rare diseases, primary medical care, and family health care.

For over 40 years, Pierre Fabre has played a vital role in oncology, mastering the entire value chain from research to marketing. In 2024, the company’s oncology revenue is projected to reach €520 million, constituting about 88% of international sales from a total revenue of €3.1 billion. Almost 90% of its products are manufactured in France, demonstrating its commitment to local production.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Pierre Fabre Laboratories and Iktos heralds a promising future for oncology research by integrating AI technology into drug discovery processes. This partnership not only symbolizes the strides being made in the field but also illustrates the potential to address unmet medical needs within cancer treatment. As this initiative unfolds, it will be interesting to observe the advancements that emerge from this integration of technology and expertise.