Sanofi has transformed the productivity of its R&D pipeline over the past several years, and late-stage clinical data readouts are expected in the second half of this year for new anticancer drugs, a candidate pemphigus therapy and a COVID-19 vaccine.

Sanofi outlines progress on developing a differentiated R&D pipeline in immunology, including novel ways of addressing COPD, atopic dermatitis and autoimmune disorders.

Sanofi R&D head John Reed says company has kept 95% of patients on its nearly 400 clinical trials and started 59 studies. Company has also stepped up collaborations and closed acquisitions, integrating employees remotely.

Another UK biotech has been swallowed up by a big pharma with Sanofi acquiring the Cambridge-based firm in a deal that could be worth almost $1.5bn.