Sanofi and ImmuNext, have announced an agreement focused on the development of a novel antibody with the potential to treat a range of autoimmune diseases including Lupus and Multiple Sclerosis.

Under the terms of the agreement, ImmuNext will grant Sanofi an exclusive, worldwide license to develop and commercialize INX-021, a CD40L monoclonal antibody in preclinical development that suppresses the activity of a cellular pathway that is overactive in many autoimmune diseases. In addition, Sanofi and ImmuNext will initiate a research collaboration to support clinical trials. ­

Potential milestone payments to ImmuNext under the agreement could total $500 million. ImmuNext is also eligible to receive tiered royalties up to double digits on sales of products.

“The immunoregulatory molecule, CD40L, is critical to the progression of a wide spectrum of autoimmune diseases,” said Randolph Noelle, Ph.D., co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of ImmuNext and Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College. “Antibodies that block the function of CD40L have proven in pre-clinical models of autoimmunity to be amongst the most effective agents in treating disease. The development of anti-CD40L for the treatment of autoimmune diseases offers a unique opportunity to silence disease progression and offer long-term remission.”

“Sanofi is committed to expanding our pipeline of specialty care products in multiple sclerosis, where we have established a strong foundation, and immunology, where we are poised to launch new treatments this year for atopic dermatitis and rheumatoid arthritis,” said Frank Nestle, Global Head of Immunology & Inflammation Research Therapeutic Area and also North America Chief Scientific Officer. “We are excited to collaborate with Dr. Noelle and the team at ImmuNext on this promising endeavor.”