Pierre Fabre and Iktos Join Forces for AI-Driven Oncology Drug Discovery

Collaboration Highlights in Oncology Drug Discovery

Pierre Fabre Laboratories has recently announced a strategic partnership with Iktos, a leading company in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics for drug discovery, to enhance efforts in oncology. This collaboration aims to identify and develop new small molecule drug candidates, leveraging complementary strengths in computational design, medicinal chemistry, biology, and preclinical development.

The Essence of the Partnership

As part of this agreement, Iktos will utilize its generative design platform powered by AI to expedite the discovery of small molecule candidates optimized for a targeting oncogenic pathway that has not yet been disclosed. Meanwhile, Pierre Fabre will contribute its extensive knowledge in oncological research and preclinical development to guide the selection and evaluation of these drug candidates.

While the financial terms of this collaboration have not been disclosed, it includes an initial payment along with milestone-based payments, which indicates the commitment and potential value of the partnership.

Audrey Kauffmann, Director of Data Science and Biostatistics at Pierre Fabre Medical Care R&D, expressed that this collaboration marks a significant milestone in the company's journey toward establishing an AI-driven R&D engine. The integration of Iktos' cutting-edge generative AI technologies and automated chemistry into Pierre Fabre's research platforms is a stride towards fulfilling their data and AI strategy. This partnership reflects their ambition to leverage innovation to improve drug discovery quality and success rates while accelerating significant advancements for cancer patients worldwide.

A Vision of Accelerated Discovery

Olivier Geneste, Director of Drug Discovery at Pierre Fabre Medical Care R&D, elaborated on the excitement of collaborating with Iktos for drug discovery. He highlighted that Iktos's formidable expertise in generative AI, coupled with automated chemistry, can significantly fast-track the development of innovative therapies aimed at high-value oncogenic targets, addressing unmet needs for cancer patients.

Yann Gaston-Mathé, Co-founder and CEO of Iktos, echoed the sentiment, praising the partnership with Pierre Fabre Laboratories, which has a notable history in oncology. This collaboration exemplifies the synergy between Iktos's generative AI technology and Pierre Fabre's deep expertise in scientific and clinical development. Together, they aim to create an optimal framework for the rapid and efficient development of innovative small molecule candidates in oncology, ultimately leading to significant therapeutic advancements for patients worldwide.

Pierre Fabre Laboratories' R&D Initiatives

Pierre Fabre Laboratories has expanded its precision oncology efforts by incorporating various assets into its R&D portfolio. Two selective mutant EGFR inhibitors, PFL-241 and PFL-721, are under development for patients with EGFR-induced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). PFL-002 is currently in clinical trials for solid tumors induced by genetic alterations in MET. Furthermore, the pan-RAF inhibitor Exarafenib is being developed to broaden targeted therapy options for RAS/RAF-induced solid tumors. In collaboration with Vernalis Ltd., preclinical candidates targeting various oncogenic pathways are also being explored.

The company is engaged in a collaboration with RedRidge Bio to identify and develop biparatopic antibodies for multiple targets in precision oncology, dermatology, and rare diseases. These new additions to the drug discovery and clinical development portfolio complement Pierre Fabre's existing precision oncology pipeline aimed at BRAF, MEK, HER2, and post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders driven by EBV.

About Pierre Fabre Laboratories

Pierre Fabre Laboratories is the second-largest dermocosmetics company globally and a leading pharmaceutical firm in Europe. Its Dermocosmetics and Personal Care portfolio includes internationally recognized brands such as Eau Thermale Avène, Ducray, Klorane, A-Derma, René Furterer, Même Cosmetics, Darrow, and Elgydium. The company’s healthcare segment encompasses five main therapeutic areas: oncology, dermatology, rare diseases, primary care, and family health.

For over 40 years, Pierre Fabre has been a key player in oncology, dominating the entire value chain, from R&D to commercialization. Their oncology specialty portfolio includes colorectal, breast, lung, and skin cancers along with certain malignant hematological neoplasms and precancerous dermatological conditions like actinic keratosis. In 2024, Pierre Fabre's oncology revenue reached 520 million euros, with 88% derived from international sales, part of total sales amounting to 3.1 billion euros.

Since its establishment in southwestern France, Pierre Fabre Laboratories has manufactured nearly 90% of its products domestically and employs around 10,200 staff globally. In 2024, their R&D budget reached 219 million euros, with 60% allocated to targeted therapies in oncology and 35% aimed at skin health solutions. Currently, ten R&D programs focused on targeted oncology therapies are underway.

The controlling shareholder of Pierre Fabre Laboratories (86%) is a humanitarian foundation named after the company. Employees constitute the remaining shareholders, a structure that ensures corporate independence, long-term vision, and contributions to the common good. Dividends paid to the Pierre Fabre Foundation support 35 healthcare access programs implemented in 22 of the world's least developed countries.

Pierre Fabre's CSR policy has been evaluated by AFNOR Certification, achieving the