Sanofi will advance KT-485/SAR447971, an oral, highly potent and selective IRAK4 degrader for immuno-inflammatory diseases, into clinical trials.
Phase 1 testing is expected to begin next year. Sanofi will not advance KT-474.
Kymera Therapeutics Inc. and Sanofi partnered in 2020 to develop and commercialize first-in-class protein degrader therapies targeting IRAK4 in patients with immune-inflammatory diseases.
Compelling Preclinical Profile
“Sanofi’s intention to advance KT-485 into clinical testing and to direct all collaboration resources to the next-generation IRAK4 degrader is a reflection of the molecule’s compelling preclinical profile and of Sanofi’s and Kymera’s commitment to transform immunology treatment paradigms. Both companies have a strong belief in and commitment to targeting the IRAK4 pathway with degraders that are functionally differentiated from small molecule inhibitors, and to bringing forward the best oral medicines to patients living with immunological diseases,” says Nello Mainolfi, PhD, Founder, President and CEO, Kymera Therapeutics, in a news release. “In preclinical testing, KT-485 demonstrated an improved target product profile as compared to KT-474. With greater potency and selectivity and a generally improved overall profile, KT-485 is best-positioned to capitalize on the significant potential of IRAK4 degradation.”
In conjunction with its plans to advance KT-485, Sanofi will exercise its participation election right for the IRAK4 target under the terms of the companies’ collaboration agreement. Under the agreement, Kymera achieved a $20 million milestone in the second quarter of 2025 related to preclinical activities associated with KT-485. Kymera is eligible to receive up to $975 million of potential clinical, regulatory, and commercial milestones related to KT-485, including an additional milestone upon the start of Phase 1 clinical testing.
Sanofi will pay a milestone when KT-485 starts clinical development. The fee is part of a total package that is worth up to $975 million in potential clinical, regulatory and commercial milestones. Last month, Kymera said it was eligible to receive up to $1 billion in development and regulatory milestones, plus up to $400 million tied to commercial successes, as part of the Sanofi deal.
