Pierre Fabre Laboratories and Iktos, a global leader in artificial intelligence and robotics for drug discovery, have announced a strategic collaboration to accelerate the development of novel small-molecule drug candidates in oncology. The partnership brings together Iktos’ advanced generative AI and automated chemistry platforms with Pierre Fabre’s deep expertise in oncology research, medicinal chemistry, and preclinical development. Under the agreement, Iktos will use its AI-driven generative design technology to rapidly identify and optimize small-molecule compounds targeting an undisclosed oncology pathway. Pierre Fabre Laboratories will lead the biological evaluation, selection, and progression of promising candidates through preclinical development, leveraging its extensive experience in precision oncology. Financial details of the collaboration were not disclosed, but the deal includes an upfront payment and multiple milestone-based payments tied to the success of the program. The partnership is a key step in Pierre Fabre’s broader strategy to build an AI-powered research and development engine, aiming to improve the efficiency, quality, and success rate of drug discovery. Audrey Kauffmann, Head of Data Science and Biometry at Pierre Fabre Medical Care R&D, said the collaboration marks a significant milestone in advancing the company’s data and AI strategy. She emphasized that integrating Iktos’ technology into their R&D platforms will help accelerate the delivery of innovative treatments for cancer patients. Olivier Geneste, Head of Drug Discovery at Pierre Fabre Medical Care R&D, highlighted the value of Iktos’ expertise in generative AI and automated chemistry, stating that the partnership will help de-risk and speed up the discovery of new therapies for unmet needs in oncology. Yann Gaston-Mathé, Co-founder and CEO of Iktos, welcomed the collaboration, noting the strong synergy between Iktos’ AI and robotics capabilities and Pierre Fabre’s scientific and clinical development strengths. He expressed confidence that the partnership will create a powerful framework to bring new oncology treatments to patients more quickly and efficiently. Pierre Fabre Laboratories continues to expand its oncology pipeline with several promising candidates in development, including PFL-241 and PFL-721, mutant-selective EGFR inhibitors for non-small cell lung cancer, and PFL-002, currently in clinical testing for MET-altered solid tumors. The company is also advancing exarafenib, a pan-RAF inhibitor, and exploring new preclinical targets through collaborations with Vernalis Ltd. and RedRidge Bio. With a strong commitment to innovation and patient impact, Pierre Fabre’s 2024 R&D budget of 219 million euros included 60% dedicated to targeted therapies in oncology. The company, majority-owned by a humanitarian foundation and employee shareholders, maintains a long-term vision focused on sustainable development and global health access. Iktos, founded in 2016, has completed over 60 successful drug discovery projects and is advancing its own pipeline in oncology, obesity, and inflammatory diseases. The company recently acquired Synsight to enhance its biological screening capabilities and was awarded a €2.5 million grant from the European Innovation Council, with potential follow-on funding of €5 million, to further develop its integrated AI and robotics platform.