Globenewswire·2025-03-20 06:00Core Viewpoint - Sanofi has agreed to acquire Dren Bio's bispecific myeloid cell engager, DR-0201, which targets deep B-cell depletion, enhancing its immunology pipeline [1][6]. Company Overview - Sanofi is a global healthcare company focused on innovative treatments and vaccines, aiming to improve patient lives through scientific advancements [11]. - Dren Bio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class antibody therapeutics for cancer and autoimmune diseases [8]. Product Details - DR-0201 is a bispecific antibody that engages myeloid cells to induce deep B-cell depletion, showing promise in treating autoimmune diseases like lupus [2][5]. - The drug is currently undergoing evaluation in two ongoing phase 1 studies, demonstrating robust B-cell depletion in both pre-clinical and clinical settings [5]. Strategic Implications - The acquisition of DR-0201 is part of Sanofi's strategy to strengthen its position in immunology and address significant unmet medical needs in autoimmune diseases [3][4]. - Sanofi's investment includes an upfront payment of $600 million, with potential future payments of $1.3 billion based on development milestones [6][9]. Operational Aspects - Following the acquisition, Dren Bio will continue to operate independently, focusing on its pipeline of antibody therapeutics [7]. - The transaction is expected to close in Q2 2025, pending regulatory approvals [7].