Sanofi, Glenmark Sign Autoimmune Antibody License Deal

Lymphocyte (National Cancer Institute)

The French pharmaceutical company Sanofi and Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. in Mumbai, India have signed an agreement for development and commercialization of GBR500, a monoclonal antibody to treat chronic autoimmune disorders. The deal is expected to close  next month following required regulatory steps.

GBR500, developed by Glenmark, targets receptors that affect the adhesion of lymphocytes (white blood cells) in the immune system at inflammation sites and later release of proteins that trigger inflammation. Sanofi is expected to develop GBR500 further for autoimmune inflammatory disorders such as Crohn’s disease and multiple sclerosis.

Glenmark will receive initial payments of $25 million upon closing of the transaction, with another $25 million contingent on Sanofi’s assessment of data provided by Glenmark. Glenmark could also receive potential success-based development, regulatory, and commercial milestone payments, as well as royalties on net sales of products commercialized under the license.

Sanofi and Glenmark will divide marketing and promotion of GBR500. Sanofi will have exclusive marketing rights in North America, Europe, Japan, Mexico, Argentina, Chile and Uruguay. Sanofi and Glenmark will share these rights in Brazil, Russia, Australia and New Zealand. Glenmark will retain exclusive marketing rights in India and the rest of the world.

Read more: Dana-Farber, Sanofi-aventis Partner on Cancer Research

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