• Servier acquires KER-0193, a potential treatment for Fragile X syndrome, developed by Kaerus Bioscience, a Medicxi company
• KER-0193, a novel, orally bioavailable small molecule, was granted Orphan Drug Designation and Rare Pediatric Drug Designation by U.S. FDA
• Acquisition strengthens Servier’s neurology pipeline in line with its 2030 strategy

SURESNES, France, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Servier, an independent international pharmaceutical group governed by a foundation, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with Kaerus Bioscience for the acquisition of KER-0193, a potential treatment for Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common genetic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This acquisition demonstrates Servier’s commitment to building a neurology franchise by expanding its pipeline with assets targeting rare indications for patients with high unmet need.

KER-0193 was discovered and developed by Kaerus Bioscience, a UK headquartered biotechnology company co-founded by Medicxi in 2016. Kaerus Bioscience successfully completed a Phase 1 clinical study of KER-0193 in healthy volunteers in March 2025, which confirmed the treatment to be safe and well tolerated with excellent pharmacokinetics. Additionally, KER-0193 has been granted both Orphan Drug Designation and Rare Pediatric Drug Designations for the treatment of FXS by the U.S. Food and Drugs Administration (FDA).

Under the terms of the agreement, Kaerus Bioscience will receive an upfront payment for the sale of KER-0193 and will also be eligible for development and commercial earn-out payments. The total value of the deal could reach up to $450M.

Claude Bertrand, Executive Vice-President of R&D at Servier, said: “KER-0193 is Servier’s first asset acquisition in neurology and so marks a significant milestone in our 2030 strategy, reinforcing our long-term commitment to establishing a leading neurology franchise focused on rare diseases. It reflects our determination to build a differentiated pipeline of innovative therapies for patients with underserved needs. We are particularly excited to advance KER-0193 as we believe it holds meaningful promise for patients living with Fragile X syndrome, a condition for which no approved treatment options exist today.” 

Dr. Robert Ring, Chief Executive Officer of Kaerus Bioscience, said: “We strongly believe in the therapeutic potential of KER-0193 in Fragile X syndrome. Servier’s firm commitment to neurology and global capabilities make it the ideal partner to further develop KER-0193 for patients worldwide.” 

Michèle Ollier, Venture Partner and co-founder of Medicxi, said: “Kaerus Bioscience was created by Medicxi to advance a clear product vision to develop a potential first-in-disease therapy for Fragile X syndrome. We are extremely proud of the cutting-edge scientific progress achieved by the Kaerus team under Dr Ring’s leadership, and are excited that this deal with Servier will accelerate the development of KER-0193, bringing us closer to ensuring this innovative new therapeutic can reach those patients who are most in need.”

KER-0193 is an orally bioavailable small molecule modulator of BK channels that specifically addresses abnormal function of BK channels linked to the genetic cause of FXS. In preclinical studies, KER-0193 has already demonstrated broad therapeutic-like effects on improving syndrome-relevant behavioral, sensory and cognitive deficits. As part of the development strategy, Servier will prepare the launch of a Phase 2 clinical trial in 2026 in FXS patients in America and Europe. 

FXS is a rare genetic syndrome of neurodevelopment characterized by a wide range of cognitive and behavioral challenges. It is the most common genetic cause of intellectual disability and the leading single-gene form of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affecting approximately 1 in 7,000 males and 1 in 11,000 females globally. There are currently no approved treatments for FXS, which accounts for approximately 1% of ASD and intellectual disability cases globally.

Servier media contacts:

Olympe Muller
olympe.muller@servier.com

Kaerus Bioscience media contacts:
Optimum Strategic Communications 
Hana Malik, Stephen Adams
Tel: +44 (0) 20 3882 2119
Email: kaerus@optimumcomms.com

About Servier

Servier is an independent international pharmaceutical company governed by a nonprofit foundation, committed to making a meaningful social impact for patients and contributing to a sustainable world. Its unique governance model ensures its independence, while supporting long-term innovation, with 100% of its profits reinvested in the Group’s development. 

As a world leader in hypertension and venous diseases and a major player in cardiometabolism, Servier drives transformative innovation to support patients with chronic conditions and improve their day-to-day lives through a holistic approach, which includes making patient adherence and control a priority across the globe. Its ambition is to become a leading player in rare cancers, which is why the Group invests heavily in oncology, allocating close to 70% of its R&D budget to this field. By leveraging precision medicine, Servier develops therapies that are more targeted and more effective.

Bolstered by its success in oncology, Servier has expanded into neurology, a key driver of future growth. The Group is focused on a select number of neurological diseases, where accurate patient profiling enables targeted therapeutic responses through precision medicine. 

To open up wider access to high-quality, affordable care, Servier also offers an extensive range of generic medicines, building on well-established brands in France, Eastern Europe, and Brazil. In all its activities, and at every stage of the medicine life cycle, the Group integrates the patient’s voice. 

Headquartered in France, Servier operates in around 140 countries. In 2023-2024, the Group, which employs over 22,000 people worldwide, achieved revenues of €5.9 billion. 

More information on: servier.com. Follow us on social media: LinkedIn, Facebook, X, Instagram.

About Kaerus Bioscience

Kaerus Bioscience is a UK-based clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company established by Medicxi for the development of therapeutics for rare genetic syndromes of neurodevelopment. Kaerus has developed a pipeline of targeted, small molecule therapeutics that address an underlying ion channel dysfunction in Fragile X syndrome, which is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) globally.

For more information about Kaerus, please visit www.kaerusbio.com.

About Medicxi

Medicxi is a healthcare-focused investment firm with the mission to create and invest in companies across the full drug development continuum. Leveraging deep expertise in drug development and company creation spanning over two decades, Medicxi invests in early and late-stage therapeutics with a product vision that can fulfil a clear unmet medical need. For more information, please visit: www.medicxi.com

LONDON, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Verve The Live Agency has appointed Michael Pring as Global Client & Development Director, a newly created leadership role designed to accelerate the agency’s international growth and deepen client partnerships across its expanding footprint in Europe, the US, and APAC.

Michael Pring, Global Client & Development Director, Verve

Michael joins Verve’s senior leadership team on 8th September and will work across all markets, including Verve’s operations in London, Dublin, Amsterdam and Singapore.

A seasoned agency leader, Michael brings over 25 years of experience driving growth and delivering award-winning work for some of the world’s most respected brands. He spent more than a decade at AMV BBDO in London, where he held several senior roles including Chief Marketing Officer, Deputy Chairman, and most recently Chief Operating Officer. During his time at the agency, he led AMV’s flagship Guinness/Diageo relationship globally as well as the PepsiCo International Beverages business, helping shape global campaigns, sponsorships and innovation launches.

Michael’s appointment signals Verve’s continued investment in senior talent and global scale, following a period of strong growth and international expansion. In his new role, he will focus on unlocking new client opportunities, supporting the launch of Verve Singapore, and driving strategic development in key markets.

Ronan Traynor, Founder & CEO of Verve, said:
“This is a significant hire for Verve. Michael brings an exceptional track record in client leadership, growth and creative excellence, along with deep relationships and experience at the highest level. He shares our belief in the power of live experiences to drive real business impact, and is ideally placed to help lead our next phase of international growth. As we scale with ambition and purpose, his perspective and partnership will be invaluable.”

Michael Pring said:
“I’m really impressed with the business Ronan has built over the years, and with the talent, energy and culture of the agency. I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and playing a part in what comes next.”

Verve is a multi-award-winning experiential agency and certified B Corp, with offices in Dublin, London, Amsterdam and Singapore. Part of The Opus Group, a global network of leading experiential agencies, Verve has recently been recognised with Best Event Team at the 2025 Campaign Experience Awards, CSR Agency of the Year at The Drum Awards, and Event of the Year at the European Sponsorship Awards.

www.verveliveagency.com

ISTANBUL, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As the industry gathers for IFA Berlin, the world’s biggest home and consumer technology event, companies are showcasing their latest innovations to meet evolving consumer needs. Beko, a global leader in home appliances, is highlighting its portfolio of energy-efficient products that combine cutting-edge technology with intuitive functionality, while prioritising reliability and durability for everyday use.

Akın Garzanlı, Beko CMO

Beko’s technology portfolio features state-of-the-art refrigeration, drying, dishwashing, and cooking solutions – all equipped with intelligent technologies that elevate performance, sustainability, and user experience.

Refrigerators with Innovative Freshness Technologies

New refrigeration innovations set a benchmark for freshness, energy efficiency, and quiet operation. The 60 cm combi No Frost refrigerator offers a spacious 415-liter capacity with an A energy class rating and operates at a whisper-quiet 29 dBA. For compact living spaces, the 54 cm built-in refrigerator delivers 270 liters of storage with a B energy class efficiency and equally low noise levels. Both models integrate the company’s advanced freshness systems:

• FreshLock™ cooling technology extends the freshness of selected foods by up to 30% through optimized humidity and even airflow.¹
• ProFresh* technology preserves freshness up to four times longer for specific food types, ensuring optimal taste and nutrition.²
• VitalCare™ three-tone lighting preserves antioxidants in fruits and vegetables for up to seven days, supporting healthier nutrition.³

Smart, Energy-Saving Dishwashing

The latest dishwasher innovations feature the PowerIntense⁴ spray arm system, delivering up to five times better cleaning performance on even the hardest-to-reach areas versus previous models. The SensorAdapt⁵ AI-sensing technology detects the load size and soil level to automatically optimize water, energy, and cycle time—reducing energy and water use by up to 50% and halving cleaning time.

Additional highlights include:

• A flexible third rack offering increased loading versatility, with SpaceClean 3rd Rack accommodating taller items such as mugs and glasses up to 13 cm.
• The PowerClean Pro system enhances lower rack capacity by 30% and delivers 60% more powerful water jets to tackle tough dirt.⁶
• The energy-efficient heat pump system delivers high performance while exceeding energy class A efficiency standards by 50%.⁷
• TargetDry smart drying technology applies heat only where needed on dishes, speeding drying times and reducing energy consumption by up to 25%.⁸

Innovative Cooking Solutions for Modern Homes

Across the brand family, Beko expands its cooking appliance range with a new slim induction hob featuring cutting-edge smart sensors:

• SafeCook Sensor instantly detects cooking temperatures to safely end cooking and prevent overheating.
• ReadytoCook Sensor alerts users when the desired temperature is reached and keeps it stable for perfect cooking results.

Also featured are advanced ovens designed for versatility and precision:

• The compact built-in oven combines traditional oven capabilities with microwave speed, delivering 3-level cooking that conserves energy and time without compromising results.
• The built-in steam oven utilizes SteamSense+, a food sensing probe, and active steam control to automatically adjust humidity and temperature, ensuring delicious cooking every time.

Akın Garzanlı, Chief Marketing Officer at Beko, said: “Beko’s new generation of appliances reveals a future where innovation and sustainability coexist, offering consumers choices that support greener living and smarter home management. Our latest technologies respond to real consumer needs and reflect a wider shift in our industry toward practical design, smart connectivity and greater efficiency. Reliability and durability are central to our approach, so that products consistently perform, adapt over time and stand the test of time.”

About Beko

Beko is an international home appliance company with a strong global presence, operating through subsidiaries in more than 55 countries with a workforce of over 50,000 employees and production facilities spanning multiple regions—including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Beko has 22 brands owned or used with a limited license (Arçelik, Beko, Whirlpool*, Grundig, Hotpoint, Arctic, Ariston*, Leisure, Indesit, Blomberg, Defy, Dawlance, Hitachi*, Voltas Beko, Singer*, ElektraBregenz, Flavel, Bauknecht, Privileg, Altus, Ignis, Polar). Beko became the largest white goods company in Europe with its market share (based on volumes) and reached a consolidated turnover of 10.6 billion Euros in 2024. Beko’s 29 R&D and Design Centers & Offices across the globe are home to over 2,300 researchers and hold more than 4,500 international registered patent applications to date. The company has achieved the highest score in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA) in the DHP Household Durables industry for the sixth consecutive year (based on the results dated 22 November 2024) and has been included in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for the eighth consecutive year.** The company has been recognized as the 17^th most sustainable company on TIME Magazine and Statista’s 2025 list of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies. Beko’s vision is ‘Respecting the World, Respected Worldwide.’

www.bekocorporate.com

*Licensee limited to certain jurisdictions.
**The data presented belongs to Arçelik A.Ş., a parent company of Beko.

¹ Weight loss and sensory evaluation tests based on the parameter “overall acceptability”, used for the determination of the shelf life, were conducted by Intertek on carrot, fresh-cut iceberg, fresh-cut tomato, strawberry, salami and kashar cheese samples stored in the FreshLock refrigerator and control refrigerator (without the FreshLock technology) for a 12-day period. The results were evaluated by comparing samples stored on the bottom front shelf of refrigerators.
² Tested by SGS, comparing spinach and rocket storage in the humidity controlled crisper versus a conventional crisper (on average)
³ Tested by Intertek for fruits and vegetables (blueberry, yellow pepper, tomato, parsley) directly exposed to the light technology compared to a refrigerator without the same technology installed (and compared to Day 0) over a 7-day period while stored in the crisper.
⁴ Based on 3rd party test report, PowerIntense Spray technology is compared to reference model equipped with CornerIntense Spray, with Intensive 70 program.
⁵ Based on internal test report compared to Beko-BDIN38560C reference model. (Intensive 70 ° Program)
⁶ Percentage of water power calculated with PowerClean Pro option activated vs non activated.
⁷ 50% more efficient (energy efficiency index of 15.95) than energy efficiency index limit value (31.9) of A Energy class according to regulation (EU) 2019/2017.
⁸ Based on internal test report, compared to same capacity 16 place setting standard tub dishwashers without TargetDry technology.

Ariston VitalCare

Beko SensorAdapt

Grundig SafeCook

Beko Logo (Corporate)