Sanofi and Belharra forge $700m partnership for immunological diseases

Belharra Therapeutics has announced that it has entered a strategic partnership with global powerhouse Sanofi to spur the development of small molecule therapies for immunological diseases. Under the terms of the agreement, the San Diego, California-based next-generation chemoproteomics company will receive an upfront payment of $40m. Moreover, the company is in a position to gain up to $700m in payments for research, development, commercial milestones, and royalties over the long term, as per the 18 June press release.

Global Head of Immunology and Inflammation Research at Sanofi, John Bertin said the name of the game is to explore previously “undruggable” targets, in an announcement covering the deal.

Belharra’s proprietary platform, which is designed to deliver validated insights on “elusive” protein targets by illuminating binding pockets on proteins, and protein—protein interactions across various cell types, has also found favour with other pharma companies.  Sanofi is also aiming to gain a stronger foothold in both the immunology and small molecule treatment space. Earlier in April, Sanofi partner, IGM Biosciences, shared that its collaboration with Sanofi had switched tracks to focus solely on immunoglobin M (IgM) agonist antibody development for immunology and inflammation targets.

Visit our upcoming pharma conferences – https://virtueinsight.com/upcoming-conferences/