Sanofi-aventis enters into agreement with Alopexx

Sanofi-aventis has signed a contract with Alopexx, which will see the two firms collaborate to license a first-in-class human monoclonal antibody for the treatment and prevention of serious infections, such as S aureus, S epidermidis, E. coli and Y pestis.

The antibody in question is currently in the development stages and will cater to an unmet medical need.

As part of the agreement, Alopexx will bring the product into phase I clinical trials during 2010, while Sanofi-aventis will be offered the option to take up the exclusive worldwide license for the drug.

Marc Cluzel, executive vice-president of research and development at Sanofi-aventis, said that the product “could become, if developed to its full potential, a key driver of our company’s anti-infective portfolio with a strong position in the prevention and treatment of resistant infections”.

Last month, Sanofi-aventis revealed that its drug Multaq (dronedarone 400mg Tablets) – which is indicated for use in patients with current non-permanent atrial fibrillation – has been approved by the European commission.