UCB, a global biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of medicines for the immune system and central nervous system, and Sanofi, an integrated global healthcare provider, have entered a scientific and strategic collaboration for the discovery and development of innovative anti-inflammatory small molecules, which have the potential to treat immune-mediated diseases in areas such as gastroenterology and arthritis.

“We partner Sanofi’s significant expertise, strong capabilities and resources with UCB’s cutting-edge research skills and breakthrough innovations. Together we can maximize the opportunity to treat diseases currently treated by biologic agents with small molecules and thus benefit millions of people suffering from severe diseases,” said Ismail Kola, president, UCB NewMedicines.

“Immune-mediated diseases affect individuals, families and communities and impact the economies of countries and nations, making this poorly understood category of diseases a significant public health burden,” said Dr. Elias Zerhouni, president, global R&D at Sanofi. “Joining efforts with UCB, we will address a scientific challenge in immunology, and increase the chances of accelerating the discovery and development of future therapies.”

UCB NewMedicines, the research arm of UCB, has used an innovative approach to identify small molecules modulators of a biological pathway, for which parenterally administered biologic therapies have proven highly efficacious in patients. A dedicated team of scientists will be formed under the leadership of Sanofi and UCB and will join forces in a discovery and development-based collaboration to characterize and identify new potential therapies.

Sanofi and UCB will share costs and profits on an equal basis. UCB will be entitled to initial upfront, preclinical and clinical development milestone payments from Sanofi, potentially exceeding $138.7 million.