Sanofi and Regeneron announce new immuno-oncology collaboration

Sanofi has announced a new global collaboration with long-term partner Regeneron, focusing on the emerging field of immuno-oncology.

The aim of the new project will be to discover, develop and commercialise new antibody cancer treatments, with the two companies jointly developing a programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitor currently in phase I testing.

Sanofi and Regeneron plan to initiate clinical trials in 2016, with new therapeutic candidates based on ongoing, innovative preclinical programmes. The new agreement covers both monoclonal antibodies and new bispecific antibodies.

Under the terms of the deal, Sanofi will make an upfront payment to Regeneron of $640 million (410.22 million pounds), and the companies will invest $1 billion for discovery through to proof of concept development of monotherapy and novel combinations of immuno-oncology antibody candidates.

Dr Elias Zerhouni, president for global research and development at Sanofi, said: "With more than eight years of successful collaboration between us, I am confident in our ability to advance these novel programmes."