Biophytis and Consortium Including Ronghui Renhe Life Technology Launch First Global Phase 3 Clinical Trial for Sarcopenia
October 14, 2025 – Paris, France
In a groundbreaking move towards combating age-related muscle degeneration, Biophytis, a leading biotechnology company specializing in therapies aimed at enhancing longevity, has signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a consortium of investors. This consortium notably includes Ronghui Renhe Life Technology, a prominent Chinese conglomerate focused on pharmaceutical distribution and health products.
The agreement sets the stage for the establishment of a joint venture headquartered in Hong Kong, dedicated to financing and initiating the world’s very first Phase 3 clinical trial specifically targeting sarcopenia. This debilitating disease, characterized by the progressive loss of muscle mass and function, affects tens of millions worldwide, significantly impairing mobility and quality of life in older adults.
Combining Global Expertise and Resources
The new joint venture aims to leverage the complementary strengths of its partners: cutting-edge European research and innovation, world-class biopharmaceutical development and regulatory expertise from China, alongside robust regional financing capabilities anchored in Hong Kong. Through this international collaboration, the venture seeks to accelerate the development and eventual commercialization of Biophytis’ drug candidate BIO101. BIO101, backed by extensive preclinical and clinical investigations, represents a promising therapeutic approach to improve muscle health and mobility in elderly patients suffering from sarcopenia.
Scope and Investment Plan
The consortium plans to invest up to USD 20 million over the next two years to fund the Phase 3 clinical trial, which is expected to enroll up to 932 patients across Europe and Asia, including China and Japan. The joint venture will hold exclusive rights to develop and commercialize BIO101 in China, Japan, and South Korea.
As part of the partnership, Biophytis will transfer ownership or grant exclusive licenses for patents related to BIO101 registered or to be registered in these key Asian markets.
Statements from Leadership
Stanislas Veillet, CEO of Biophytis, lauded the partnership as a pivotal milestone in the quest to combat age-associated muscle decline, stating:
"Alongside our leading investors, we are embarking on a historic advance to bring BIO101 into its final phase of clinical development, with the potential to significantly enhance mobility and independence for elderly populations worldwide."
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Ding Xing, Chairman of Ronghui Renhe Group, commented:
"Together with Biophytis and our esteemed partners, we are proud to take this critical step in innovation, advancing treatments for sarcopenia that reflect our shared commitment to patient well-being and medical progress."
Next Steps and Outlook
The finalization of detailed contracts, including shareholder agreements and patent licensing arrangements, is anticipated by the end of 2025. Subsequently, the joint venture intends to commence its operational activities in early 2026. Further information on the joint venture’s governance structure and development timeline will be disclosed in the coming months as preparations for this landmark clinical program are finalized.
About Sarcopenia
Sarcopenia is a progressive degenerative disease marked by the loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength, with serious implications for mobility, independence, and mortality among older adults. Current epidemiological data underscore a rising prevalence globally, highlighting an urgent need for effective therapeutic interventions.
About Biophytis
Biophytis is a pioneering biotechnology company focused on developing transformative therapies that extend healthspan and improve quality of life for aging populations.
About Ronghui Renhe Life Technology
A major Chinese conglomerate engaged in pharmaceutical distribution and health product sectors, Ronghui Renhe brings strategic market expertise and resources critical for the development and commercialization of novel therapies in Asia.
Source: Biophytis, MyPharma Editions
