By Fineline Cube 
French pharmaceutical major Sanofi (NASDAQ: SNY) reported that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Orphan Drug Designation to its investigational GPRC5D-targeting antibody, SAR446523, for the treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (R/R MM). The monoclonal antibody is designed to enhance antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) activity and is currently under evaluation in a first-in-human Phase I trial.
Mechanism and Target of SAR446523
SAR446523 represents an IgG1 monoclonal antibody characterized by its enhanced ADCC activity. It specifically targets the GPRC5D receptor, which is abundantly expressed on malignant plasma cells in myeloma patients but present at minimal levels in healthy tissues. This selective targeting may offer a more precise treatment approach for patients with R/R MM.
Unmet Medical Need and Therapeutic Potential
Sanofi acknowledged that despite the existence of several treatment options, multiple myeloma remains an incurable disease, with most patients experiencing relapse and developing resistance to current therapies. The high attrition rate in later lines of treatment underscores the critical need for more effective front-line therapies. The development of SAR446523 aims to address this gap by providing a novel targeted option for patients who no longer respond to existing treatments.
Current Development Status
The safety and efficacy of SAR446523 are still under investigation through a Phase I trial assessing its subcutaneous administration. Regulatory authorities have not yet evaluated the drug, and Sanofi continues to advance its clinical development program with the goal of potentially improving outcomes for patients with multiple myeloma.-Fineline Info & Tech