Pierre Fabre Acquires Global Rights for PFL-721 and PFL-241, Boosting R&D Portfolio

Pierre Fabre Laboratories, a prominent player in the pharmaceutical and dermo-cosmetics industries, has made a significant advancement in its research and development efforts by acquiring the global rights to two promising cancer treatment drugs. These drugs, PFL-721 and PFL-241, formerly known as STX-721 and STX-241 respectively, were obtained from Antares Therapeutics, Inc., a spin-off from Scorpion Therapeutics, Inc. This acquisition grants Pierre Fabre the responsibility to lead the clinical development of these drugs, which are seen as potential breakthroughs in addressing unmet needs in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

PFL-721 is designed to target specific mutations in EGFR exon 20 and HER2 exon 20, which are frequently observed in NSCLC cases. This drug is poised to enter a critical phase of dose optimization in its first human trial. Meanwhile, PFL-241 is distinguished by its ability to penetrate the brain and act as a fourth-generation EGFR inhibitor. It is currently undergoing dose escalation in its initial human trial, targeting C797S resistance mutations prevalent in NSCLC patients.

The prevalence of EGFR mutations in NSCLC varies geographically, affecting between 14% and 38% of tumors. These mutations are significant contributors to the development of NSCLC, the most common form of lung cancer. The development of precise treatments such as PFL-721 and PFL-241 aims to address these mutations effectively, providing hope for patients with limited treatment options.

Francesco Hofmann, the Head of Research and Development for Medical Care at Pierre Fabre Laboratories, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, emphasizing the company's commitment to advancing its R&D portfolio. With global rights to several assets, including exarafenib and PFL-002, Pierre Fabre is well-positioned to deliver innovative and precision medicine solutions to patient populations facing significant unmet medical needs.

Pierre Fabre Laboratories operates as a leading force in both the pharmaceutical and dermo-cosmetics sectors. It stands as the second-largest dermo-cosmetics company globally and one of Europe’s leading pharmaceutical laboratories. The company’s diverse portfolio in dermo-cosmetics and personal care includes renowned international brands such as Eau Thermale Avène, Ducray, Klorane, A-Derma, and René Furterer, among others. Its medical care division focuses on five main therapeutic areas: oncology, dermatology, rare diseases, primary care, and family health care.

The acquisition of PFL-721 and PFL-241 represents a strategic move for Pierre Fabre Laboratories, enhancing its capabilities in oncology research and showcasing its commitment to developing therapies that address the complex needs of cancer patients. As these drugs progress through clinical trials, they hold the potential to bring new hope and treatment options to those afflicted by NSCLC, potentially transforming the landscape of cancer therapeutics.

In summary, Pierre Fabre Laboratories' acquisition of global rights to PFL-721 and PFL-241 marks a significant step in the pursuit of advanced cancer treatments. By focusing on specific EGFR mutations in NSCLC, the company reinforces its dedication to innovation in precision medicine and its mission to meet the needs of patients with challenging medical conditions.