#France #Pierre Fabre #Castres #PFL-721 #PFL-241

Pierre Fabre Laboratories Expands R&D Portfolio with PFL-721 and PFL-241 Acquisition

In a strategic move, Pierre Fabre Laboratories has announced the acquisition of global rights for two promising drug candidates, PFL-721 and PFL-241, previously recognized as STX-721 and STX-241. The acquisition, made from Antares Therapeutics, Inc., a spin-off of Scorpion Therapeutics, marks a significant enhancement to Fabre’s research and development (R&D) portfolio, particularly in addressing urgent medical needs for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Understanding the Potential of PFL-721 and PFL-241

Both PFL-721 and PFL-241 are mutation-specific inhibitors targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), a critical element in the treatment of NSCLC. Given the rising prevalence of NSCLC—estimated to arise from various EGFR mutations in approximately 14-38% of cases depending on geographical location—these drugs are poised to offer novel therapeutic avenues for patients with limited options.

PFL-721 serves as an EGFR Exon 20 and HER2 Exon 20 inhibitor that is nearing the initiation of a dose-optimization phase in a first-in-human study, focusing on NSCLC. Meanwhile, PFL-241, designed to penetrate the brain and confront fourth-generation resistance, is currently undergoing dosage escalation studies to tackle the C797S resistance mutations that complicate treatment pathways for NSCLC patients.

Strategic Vision for Research and Development

The acquisition aligns with Pierre Fabre's commitment to expanding its comprehensive R&D pipeline. Francesco Hofmann, the head of Medical Care R&D at Pierre Fabre Laboratories, expressed, "With this agreement, we now hold global rights to essential assets within our R&D portfolio, including Exarafenib, PFL-002, PFL-721, and PFL-241. Our dedicated R&D team is fully committed to advancing the clinical development of these programs, ensuring we deliver innovative and differentiated precision medicines to patient populations with significant unmet medical needs."

This advancement not only enriches the company’s offerings but also enhances its ability to contribute meaningfully to the oncology landscape, particularly in the context of precision medicine.

Overview of Pierre Fabre Laboratories

Pierre Fabre Laboratories stands as the second-largest dermocosmetics company globally and is recognized as one of Europe's leading pharmaceutical laboratories. The company's dedication to dermatology, oncological treatments, rare diseases, primary care, and family health care underscores its comprehensive approach to health and wellness.*

With renowned international brands in dermo-cosmetics like Eau Thermale Avène, Ducray, Klorane, A-Derma, and more, Pierre Fabre Laboratories aims to create therapeutic solutions that address not just the symptoms of diseases but also the overall well-being of individuals.

As advancements in personalized medicine continue to evolve, Pierre Fabre Laboratories is taking crucial steps to ensure its role as a pioneer in innovative healthcare solutions, having successfully secured rights to groundbreaking therapies that have the potential to reshape the standards of care for lung cancer patients.

In conclusion, Pierre Fabre Laboratories' acquisition of PFL-721 and PFL-241 marks a pivotal moment in both its operational strategy and its commitment to improving patient outcomes in the realm of oncology. The ongoing development of these drugs will not only enhance the company’s portfolio but will also bring hope to many battling the challenges of NSCLC.