Courtesy Sanofi

Sanofi said an oral treatment for multiple sclerosis, tolebrutinib, met its key goal in a Phase 3 study, potentially clearing the way for  regulatory approval, although in two other studies, patients earlier in the disease failed to see a benefit. 

A top company executive said he believes that the positive result would help build confidence among investors in the company’s research and development efforts.

advertisement

“It’s a meaningful but not big financial driver, but a big driver in terms of confidence,” said Houman Ashrafian, Sanofi’s head of research and development. “So what does it mean for us? I think it drives a nail, positively, into the perspective that we can do R&D.”

The data, Ashrafian seemed to think, represent a proof-of-concept for his still-early tenure running R&D.

STAT+ Exclusive Story

STAT+

This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers

Unlock this article — plus daily coverage and analysis of the biotech sector — by subscribing to STAT+.

Already have an account? Log in

Monthly

$39

Totals $468 per year

$39/month Get Started

Totals $468 per year

Starter

$30

for 3 months, then $399/year

$30 for 3 months Get Started

Then $399/year

Annual

$399

Save 15%

$399/year Get Started

Save 15%

11+ Users

Custom

Savings start at 25%!

Request A Quote Request A Quote

Savings start at 25%!

2-10 Users

$300

Annually per user

$300/year Get Started

$300 Annually per user

View All Plans

To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+.

Subscribe