Sanofi and Vir Forge Licensing Deal for Advanced Cancer and Infectious Disease Therapies

 Sanofi and Vir Biotechnology have inked an exclusive global licensing deal for the protease-cleavable masking platform for infectious diseases and cancer, as well as three clinical-stage masked T-cell engagers (TCEs). SAR446309, a dual-masked TCE targeting HER2, SAR446329, a dual-masked TCE targeting PSMA, and SAR446368, a dual-masked TCE targeting EGFR, are among the clinical-stage assets. Sanofi's unique masking technology may be used to selectively activate medications in tumour tissues by taking advantage of the naturally high protease activity of the tumour microenvironment, which can be applied to TCEs, cytokines, and other molecules. By selectively activating certain molecules in the tumour microenvironment, conventional TCEs may reduce systemic immune activation-related toxicities and raise the therapeutic index (TI).

Vir is dedicated to serving patients first, focussing on developing revolutionary medications for those with serious illnesses and unmet medical requirements. The acquisition aligns with the business's strategic reorganisation plans to give priority to its clinical-stage pipeline prospects. Three clinical-stage TCE initiatives with high potential have been developed using Sanofi's masking platform: SAR446309, a dual-masked HER2xCD3 TCE in a Phase 1 clinical investigation; SAR446329, a dual-masked PSMAxCD3 TCE in a Phase 1 clinical study; and SAR446368, a dual-masked EGFRxCD3 TCE with a certified international medicine notice. After the Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) Act is cleared, key personnel with substantial research and development experience in TCEs and deep familiarity with the masking platform technology will join Vir.