In a significant strategic move to expand its neurology pipeline, Servier an independent international pharmaceutical group, has acquired KER-0193, a potential treatment for Fragile X syndrome (FXS), from Kaerus Bioscience.

Fragile X syndrome is a rare genetic condition and the most common inherited cause of autism spectrum disorder, for which there are currently no approved treatments.

The acquisition is a key part of Servier's 2030 strategy to build a leading neurology franchise focused on rare diseases with high unmet needs. KER-0193, a novel, orally bioavailable small molecule, was discovered and developed by Kaerus Bioscience, a UK-based biotechnology company co-founded by Medicxi. It has already received Orphan Drug Designation and Rare Pediatric Drug Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and successfully completed a Phase 1 clinical trial in healthy volunteers, which confirmed its safety and tolerability.

The therapy works as a modulator of BK channels, which are linked to the genetic cause of Fragile X syndrome. Preclinical studies have shown that KER-0193 has broad therapeutic effects on improving behavioral, sensory, and cognitive deficits associated with the syndrome.

Servier plans to advance the drug by launching a Phase 2 clinical trial in Fragile X syndrome patients in America and Europe in 2026. Under the terms of the agreement, Kaerus Bioscience will receive an upfront payment and could be eligible for up to $450 million in additional development and commercial earn-out payments. This deal highlights Servier’s commitment to providing innovative therapies for underserved patient populations and reflects the confidence of both companies in the therapeutic potential of KER-0193.