The alliance valued over $750m, and includes a $25m upfront fee, a $10m future equity investment subject to mutual agreement on company valuation, and annual research support for three years with the option to extend two additional years.
The alliance is expected to initially focus on the therapeutic area of fibrosis.
Regulus and Sanofi-aventis will collaborate on up to four microRNA targets, including Regulus’ lead fibrosis program targeting microRNA-21.
Sanofi-aventis also receives an option for a broader technology alliance that provides Regulus certain rights to participate in development and commercialization of resulting products. If exercised, the three-year option is said to be worth an additional $50m to Regulus.
Marc Cluzel, executive vice-president, research & development at Sanofi-aventis, said: “This new partnership continues to illustrate Sanofi-aventis’ commitment to develop innovative therapies. microRNAs are believed to be extremely important in human development and physiology.
“Together with Regulus we will develop therapeutics which could potentially open a new paradigm in the treatment of major diseases and could offer an attractive new therapeutic approach for patients.”
Kleanthis Xanthopoulos, president and CEO of Regulus, said: “The significant support from Sanofi-aventis in this new alliance will strengthen our efforts as we continue to build microRNA therapeutics company through our commitment to scientific excellence and advancement of our pipeline of innovative new medicines.
“Indeed, this landmark alliance will significantly extend our capabilities and resources to lead the discovery and development of microRNA therapeutics.”