Servier Acquires Promising Fragile X Syndrome Treatment, Key Genetic Cause of Autism

Servier, an international pharmaceutical group, has announced the acquisition of KER-0193, a promising potential treatment for Fragile X syndrome (FXS) from UK-based biotech Kaerus Bioscience. Fragile X syndrome is the most common genetic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and a leading cause of intellectual disability, with no approved treatments currently available.

KER-0193, an orally bioavailable small molecule modulator targeting abnormal BK channel function linked to FXS, recently completed a successful Phase 1 trial demonstrating safety and favorable pharmacokinetics. The drug has also received Orphan Drug and Rare Pediatric Drug Designations from the U.S. FDA. Preclinical studies have shown KER-0193’s potential to improve behavioral, sensory, and cognitive deficits associated with FXS.

Under the agreement, Kaerus will receive an upfront payment and is eligible for additional development and commercial milestone payments, with the deal valued up to $450 million.

Claude Bertrand, Servier’s Executive VP of R&D, highlighted the acquisition as a key milestone in the company’s 2030 strategy to build a neurology franchise focused on rare diseases. Servier plans to launch a Phase 2 clinical trial of KER-0193 in 2026 across North America and Europe.

Dr. Robert Ring, CEO of Kaerus Bioscience, expressed confidence in Servier’s global capabilities to advance the development of this potential first-in-disease therapy. Medicxi, the venture firm behind Kaerus, also praised the scientific progress achieved and the accelerated path forward with Servier’s partnership.

Fragile X syndrome affects approximately 1 in 7,000 males and 1 in 11,000 females worldwide and represents about 1% of autism and intellectual disability cases globally. This acquisition underscores Servier’s commitment to addressing unmet needs in rare neurological disorders.