Graviton Bioscience, a privately held clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on therapies that inhibit Rho/Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 2 (ROCK2), along with other therapeutic compounds, has received a strategic investment from Sanofi US.
 
Under the terms of the agreement, Sanofi receives a right of first negotiation to license compounds across various indications, including immunological and metabolic syndrome indications, driving the momentum behind ROCK2 inhibitor treatments.
 
ROCK2 is an effector of the small GTPase Rho and belongs to the AGC family of kinases. It is implicated in the pathology of multiple diseases, including metabolic, autoimmune, inflammatory, and neurologic disorders for which there is either inadequate or no treatment at all.
 
“We are thrilled to welcome Sanofi as a strategic partner. Their dedication to the development of ROCK2 inhibitor treatments aligns perfectly with our vision” said Samuel Waksal, Ph.D., CEO, and founder of Graviton. “This investment opens an exciting new chapter for our vision of advancing and commercializing ROCK2 inhibitors, fostering a future that holds promise for patients globally. We are enthusiastic about the support from Sanofi.”
 
“This investment in Graviton Bioscience reflects our commitment to innovative therapies and providing patients with novel medicines and vaccines,” added Paul Hudson, Chief Executive Officer, Sanofi. “Graviton’s scientific expertise in discovering and developing the next wave of innovation has the potential to significantly enhance the landscape of therapeutic possibilities.”
 
This news comes months after Sanofi terminated an exclusive license agreement with Maze Therapeutics for the development of a drug candidate to treat Pompe disease because of objections from the U.S. government.