Deal Expanded to Include Additional Multispecific Anticalins
Freising, Germany – Pieris AG and The Sanofi Group have jointly agreed to expand their ongoing discovery and development partnership to include a novel multispecific Anticalin program. Under the existing framework of the 2010 agreement, the new program will entitle Pieris to an upfront payment from Sanofi and committed research funding as well as payments for the achievement of research, preclinical, regulatory and commercial milestones. Specific financial terms were not disclosed.
“Following more than two years of successful collaboration in this multi-program agreement, the expansion demonstrates that the Anticalin technology can deliver key differentiation over conventional biologic approaches, including the development of multispecific targeted therapeutics,” said Stephen Yoder, CEO of Pieris. “Sanofi and Pieris will continue to advance both existing and new programs, building on the excellent team chemistry between our organizations.”
Anticalin-branded proteins represent a novel generation of targeted protein therapeutics derived from human lipocalins, rationally engineered to solve for the pharmacological and pharmaceutical limitations of both protein- and non-proteinbased drug platforms. The multispecific approach, whereby the DNA of individual Anticalins can be pieced together to yield a fusion protein, offers the potential for creating new biology and synergistic efficacy by addressing multiple targets with a single drug. Additional benefits include improved convenience, accelerated development timelines, ease of manufacturing and reduced cost.
About Sanofi
Sanofi, a global and diversified healthcare leader, discovers, develops and distributes therapeutic solutions focused on patients’ needs. Sanofi has core strengths in the field of healthcare with seven growth platforms: diabetes solutions, human vaccines, innovative drugs, rare diseases, consumer healthcare, emerging markets and animal health. Sanofi is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: SAN) and in New York (NYSE: SNY).
About Pieris
Pieris AG is an independent, clinical-staged biotechnology company advancing its proprietary Anticalin® technology to create differentiated drugs that are safer and more effective than conventional approaches. Exclusive to Pieris, Anticalin-branded proteins promise to address high-unmet medical needs and expand the potential of targeted therapeutics. Pieris’ pipeline ranges from its lead compound, which has completed a Phase I clinical trial, to multiple Anticalins in preclinical development across a range of therapeutic areas. The company currently has ongoing discovery and development collaborations with Daiichi Sankyo, the Sanofi Group and Allergan.
Privately held, Pieris has been funded by premier biotechnology-focused venture capital, including lead investors OrbiMed Advisors and Global Life Science Ventures.
For more information, please visit: www.pieris-ag.com.