Redefining What’s Possible Through Gastroenterology Research

Despite a multitude of currently available treatment options in IBD, many patients fail to respond to therapies or lose response over time, which can lead to a “start and stop” cycle through different therapies in search of sustained control.² In patients who fail to respond or lose response to therapy, ongoing chronic inflammation can drive disease progression and increase the risk of colorectal cancer.^3,6

Additionally, scar tissue buildup (fibrosis) is a long-term effect of IBD, commonly impacting patients with CD and in CD, intestinal complications like fistulae and abscesses may also occur and can require hospitalization and surgery.^3,6 In fact, more than 30% of patients with CD will develop health complications from this scarring, including narrowing of the intestine (strictures), that can result in further severity of disease and additional inflammation.⁷ Fibrotic complications also occur in UC, leading to a range of intestinal symptoms like rectal urgency and incontinence, loose stools, diarrhea, and constipation.

Addressing this “start and stop” cycle and inducing sustained healing drives our commitment to GI research – aimed to better understand the pervasive burden of IBD and explore new ways to address inflammation underlying the spectrum of GI diseases.

In his experience treating patients with GI disorders, Phillip Levine, MD, Head of Gastroenterology Clinical Development, Immunology at Sanofi, sees this impact first-hand.

For decades, we have researched different ways to target the immune system to prevent or treat diseases, including studying novel pathways, cell types, and interactions that make up the immune system. Building on this deep legacy in immunology and our unique approach to immunoscience, we are focused on further understanding the immune pathways that drive disease to inform new treatment approaches for these conditions.

Due to the heterogeneity of IBD, our goal is to identify multiple opportunities that have the potential to address a broad spectrum of patients. Currently, our GI pipeline includes emerging mechanisms of action with the potential to address unmet patient needs.

Deepening our understanding of the unique needs of people with GI conditions is central to achieving this goal and advancing innovative medicines that move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach. We seek insights from key members of the GI community — including patients, patient advocacy groups, caregivers, healthcare providers, and policy makers — to understand their perspectives as we work to develop solutions that can address the real challenges and barriers for patients, their family members, and their healthcare providers. 

By focusing on education, advocacy and measurable impact from the onset of development, we aim to drive global awareness, bring attention to the unmet needs of those suffering from GI conditions, and ensure these individuals are empowered with the knowledge and support to make informed decisions about their care.

As part of the global community, we are committed to enhancing patient care, striving to support the entire journey, and ensuring that each patient receives the right treatment at the right time.