Sanofi Ending Collaboration With Ardelyx on NaP2b Program

Sanofi will terminate its 19-month collaboration with Ardelyx, effective Sept. 30, ending an alliance that focused on developing NaP2b phosphate inhibitors for kidney disease.

The move allows Ardelyx to regain control of its proprietary research capabilities, the Fremont, Calif., drugmaker says.

The NaP2b program includes a portfolio of compounds that inhibit absorption of dietary phosphate. The compounds should positively affect the treatment of elevated serum phosphate in patients with end-stage renal disease and other forms of chronic kidney disease, Ardelyx says.

The company plans to focus on lowering phosphate using its compound tenapanor, which is being evaluated in mid-stage clinical trials to treat elevated serum phosphate.

Ardelyx is also developing RDX022, a nonabsorbed polymer to treat high potassium in kidney and heart disease patients.

Ardelyx granted Sanofi a worldwide license in February 2014 to conduct research with its NaP2b inhibitors under a deal that included potential development and regulatory milestone payments of up to $198 million. Ardelyx says the French drugmaker paid an initial $1.25 million, but made no payment for termination and return of rights.

Sanofi could not be reached for comment by press time. — Jonathon Shacat