Inflammation's inner sanctum

Sanofi's Genzyme Corp. unit and Ablynx N.V. are hoping nanobodies against an undisclosed target can prevent damage to myelin and neurons in multiple sclerosis by curbing the activity of immune cells that reside in the CNS. If they are right, products from the partners' new deal could treat a broader swath of MS patients than available therapies.

Under a deal announced May 18, Genzyme will pay Ablynx an undisclosed exclusivity fee for the right to perform in vitro and in vivo research on nanobodies against the target. Genzyme will have an option to negotiate a license agreement at the conclusion of the studies...