Sanofi and Orano Join Forces to Develop Novel Radioligand Therapies for Rare Cancers

Sanofi and Orano Med have partnered to accelerate the development of next-generation radioligand therapies (RLTs) for rare cancers, focusing on lead-212 alpha-emitting isotopes. Sanofi will invest €300 million, securing a 16% stake in the new entity, strengthening both companies' positions in the oncology market.

French biopharmaceutical giant Sanofi has joined forces with Orano Med, a subsidiary of the Orano Group, to accelerate the development of next-generation radioligand therapies (RLTs). The partnership aims to leverage cutting-edge nuclear technology to address rare and hard-to-treat cancers, with a specific focus on innovative treatments utilizing alpha-emitting radioisotopes.

This agreement follows Sanofi’s announcement of an exclusive licensing agreement with Orano Med and RadioMedix with a focus on one late-stage project, AlphaMedix™. This venture will focus on developing radioligand therapies based on lead-212 (212Pb), a highly potent alpha-emitting isotope. Alpha therapy combines the precision of biological vectors that target cancer cells with the destructive power of alpha radiation, allowing for the selective killing of cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Paul Hudson, CEO of Sanofi, expressed the company's excitement about the collaboration, stating: “We are excited to partner with Orano in establishing a French pioneer that unites our respective expertise in biopharma and nuclear technology to drive groundbreaking progress in the fight against cancer.”

A Revolutionary Approach to Cancer Treatment

Radioligand therapies are a form of precision medicine that offers hope in the treatment of rare cancers, such as multiple myeloma, acute myeloid leukemia, and certain types of lymphomas. These therapies work by attaching a radioactive isotope to a biological vector that specifically targets cancer cells. The radioisotope, lead-212 in this case, releases energy that destroys the targeted cells, making it an effective approach even for cancers that have spread throughout the body.

Nicolas Maes, CEO of Orano Group, highlighted the significance of the collaboration: “The success of Orano Med is an example of our group's ability to diversify beyond our core nuclear business. By applying our expertise in nuclear materials to fields like targeted alpha therapies, we are demonstrating that nuclear technology can have a positive societal impact, not just for energy and climate, but also for human health.”

Diversifying Nuclear Expertise for Health Benefits

For Orano, a company traditionally known for its role in nuclear energy, this partnership represents a bold step into healthcare. Orano Med has already pioneered the development of targeted alpha therapies, applying the group's nuclear expertise to cancer treatment.

Orano Med has developed a robust global industrial platform for producing lead-212. Its advanced manufacturing capabilities, along with a large stockpile of raw materials, will ensure a steady and reliable supply of these therapies to patients worldwide.

Sanofi’s €300 million equity investment in the new entity represents a 16% stake, valuing the venture at €1.9 billion. This strategic move underscores Sanofi’s commitment to expanding its oncology portfolio and advancing therapies for cancers with critical unmet needs, including both rare and solid tumors.