Sanofi, Exscientia Partner on AI-Driven Drug Pipeline

Sanofi and Exscientia announced a strategic research collaboration and license agreement to develop up to 15 novel small molecule candidates in oncology and immunology. The partnership will leverage Exscientia's artificial intelligence platform, aiming to accelerate the drug discovery process and enhance the likelihood of success.

The agreement expands on a prior relationship between the two companies, which began in 2016. The collaboration will utilize Exscientia's platform, which integrates actual patient samples into early-stage target and drug discovery. This "patient-first" approach is intended to shorten development timelines and improve the quality and targeting of potential medicines.

Exscientia will lead the design and optimization of small molecule drugs up to the nomination of development candidates. Sanofi will assume responsibility for preclinical and clinical development, manufacturing, and commercialization. Under the terms, Exscientia will receive an upfront payment of $100 million and is eligible for potential milestone payments totaling up to $5.2 billion, plus tiered royalties on future sales.

Frank Nestle, Global Head of Research and Chief Scientific Officer at Sanofi, stated the collaboration aims to transform the discovery and development of small molecule medicines for cancer and immune-mediated diseases. Exscientia CEO Andrew Hopkins highlighted the potential of AI to deliver the next generation of medicines.