VG2D Enters the Preclinical Phase: A Major Milestone for a Therapeutic Innovation Against Cystic Fibrosis

A new stage is beginning for the VG2D Pharma project, born at the heart of the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne. After several years of fundamental research and development, the team is now entering the preclinical phase — the final stretch before human trials.

An Innovative Treatment in the Making

As explained by the two researchers in their video interview, the VG2D Pharma project is based on a family of so-called first-in-class molecules. Discovered nearly ten years ago during scientific exchanges between Frédéric Velard (UR BIOS) and Stéphane Gérard (ICMR – CNRS Joint Research Unit), this family of molecules opened new possibilities. Following further development by SATT Nord, an international patent was filed, paving the way for the creation of the start-up VG2D Pharma in 2024, now supported by PUI InnoReM and accompanied by Innovact.

The goal? To develop a new therapeutic strategy against cystic fibrosis, a rare genetic disease that remains incurable today.

“We want to bring therapeutic innovation to the widest possible number of patients.” — Frédéric Velard, Research Engineer at UR BIOS

The Preclinical Phase: A Crucial Step

The transition to the preclinical phase marks an essential turning point in drug development. It involves assessing the tolerance, toxicity, and efficacy of the drug candidate through a series of rigorously regulated tests, prior to any human study.

As mentioned in their video interview, the objective is to successfully complete this phase by the end of 2026, to pave the way for clinical entry as early as 2027.

Estimated duration of the preclinical phase: 12 to 18 months

“The validation of regulatory preclinical trials is an essential step to de-risk our drug candidate, particularly to reassure future investors and thus support the growth of VG2D Pharma.” — Stéphane Gérard, Professor at ICMR

A Collective Endeavor Driven by Public Research

The University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne plays a key role in this scientific and entrepreneurial venture: scientific support, provision of resources, and project development through PUI InnoReM and SATT Nord.

“The ecosystem in place at URCA is efficient and relevant in terms of support. You should not hesitate to take the leap.” — Stéphane Gérard, Professor at ICMR

The success of this preclinical phase will represent a decisive milestone, potentially opening the way to a major therapeutic innovation for patients with cystic fibrosis.

To discover behind the scenes of this project and hear directly from the founders of VG2D Pharma, watch their full video interview.