Dren Bio Expands Strategic Collaboration with Sanofi to Develop Next-Generation B-Cell Depletion Therapy
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Dren Bio, a privately held clinical-stage biotechnology company, has expanded its strategic collaboration with Sanofi to discover and develop a next-generation B-cell depletion therapy for the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
The agreement builds on the existing partnership between the two companies, following Sanofi’s earlier acquisition of Dren Bio’s DR-0201 programme. The therapy, now known as SAR448501, is currently being evaluated in two phase 1 clinical studies. Early data have shown strong B-cell depletion and suggest the potential for long-lasting, treatment-free remission in patients with autoimmune conditions.
The expanded collaboration combines Dren Bio’s myeloid cell engager and phagocytosis platform with Sanofi’s drug development capabilities. The companies will work together on discovery and preclinical development activities. Once a development candidate is selected, Sanofi will take responsibility for further development, manufacturing, regulatory approval and commercialisation.
Under the terms of the agreement, Dren Bio will receive an upfront payment of USD 100 million. The company is also eligible for up to USD 1.7 billion in milestone payments linked to development, regulatory and commercial progress.
Dren Bio has the option to enter a profit and loss sharing arrangement in the United States. If exercised, the company will fund 40% of global development costs and receive co-promotion rights, along with an equal share of US profits and losses. Outside the US, Dren Bio will remain eligible for milestone payments and tiered royalties on net sales.
Source: businesswire.com
