Earendil Labs Partners with Sanofi for Global License on Bispecific Antibodies for Autoimmune and Bowel Diseases

Earendil Labs, a pioneering entity in AI-driven research and the development of advanced biologic therapeutics, has announced a new collaboration with Sanofi. This partnership centers around licensing two innovative bispecific antibodies, HXN-1002 and HXN-1003, intended to address autoimmune and inflammatory bowel diseases. As part of the agreement, Sanofi gains exclusive global rights to these therapeutic candidates, which leverage Earendil Labs’ sophisticated AI and high-throughput discovery platform. The completion of this transaction is contingent upon standard closing procedures.

Jian Peng, PhD and CEO of Earendil Labs, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with Sanofi, a prominent figure in immunology. He highlighted the potential of their bispecific antibodies, HXN-1002 and HXN-1003, in transforming the treatment landscape for autoimmune and inflammatory bowel conditions. Earendil Labs’ platform, which is at the forefront of predictive protein modeling and high-throughput biology, stands to revolutionize the development of such therapeutics. This collaboration emphasizes the lab's ability to generate groundbreaking product candidates, aiming to make a significant impact on patient care.

Zhenping Zhu, MD, PhD, President and co-CEO of Earendil Labs, discussed the challenges posed by autoimmune diseases. These chronic conditions affect millions globally, characterized by persistent relapses and a high burden on patients’ quality of life. Despite the availability of various treatment options, many patients still face limited efficacy, underscoring the need for novel solutions. Dr. Zhu conveyed confidence that Sanofi’s extensive expertise in this domain would expedite the development and reach of HXN-1002 and HXN-1003, potentially delivering transformative treatments to patients worldwide.

Earendil Labs operates from the United States and is reshaping biopharmaceutical innovation through its advanced AI-powered platform. This platform integrates machine learning, generative protein engineering, and high-throughput experimental techniques, which together streamline the drug discovery process. The goal is to hasten the development of drug candidates, optimizing their functionality, manufacturability, and developability. Earendil Labs, along with its affiliate Helixon Therapeutics, aspires to produce biologics with first-in-class or best-in-class potential.

HXN-1002 is designed as a bispecific antibody targeting both α4β7 and TL1A. By focusing on these two validated targets, HXN-1002 aims to enhance clinical outcomes, particularly for patients resistant to existing treatments. This antibody is developed to serve individuals suffering from moderate to severe cases of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Meanwhile, HXN-1003 targets TL1A and IL23, both fundamental drivers of inflammation in various autoimmune diseases. By concurrently inhibiting these pathways, HXN-1003 has demonstrated synergistic efficacy in preclinical models of colitis and skin inflammation. This bispecific antibody holds promise in addressing the needs of patients who do not respond to current therapies.

Through this alliance, Earendil Labs and Sanofi are poised to make significant strides in the development and delivery of innovative treatments for autoimmune diseases, potentially improving the lives of countless patients worldwide.