A unique model of patient-initiated entrepreneurship

The French Prader-Willi community is a tightly-knit and committed group that has, from the very beginning, supported the academic research work carried out by Pr Maithé Tauber’s team at CRMR PRADORT – The Rare Diseases Reference Centre for Prader-Willi Syndrome and other rare forms of obesity with eating disorders.

Drawing on this academic work and in order to provide structured guidance for its development, OT4B was created in 2017 to support the continuation of research activities, particularly the implementation of new clinical and non-clinical development programs in line with applicable regulatory requirements. OT4B (OxyTocin for Babies) arose from a collaboration between academic research and bodies undertaking research into rare diseases. The company has been supported since its creation by French business leaders and investors.

Key dates in the oxytocin development program for Prader-Willi syndrome

  • 2014

    Orphan designations in Europe and the United States are obtained by Professor Maithé Tauber.

  • 2016

    Publication of clinical research work initiated by Pr Maithé Tauber in neonates and infants with Prader Willi syndrome (Tauber, 2017).

  • 2017

    OT4B created to support the continuation of focused academic research work, with the aim of submitting a drug registration application.

  • 2018

    Strategic partnership agreed with Toulouse University Hospital covering continued academic research activities and development of new clinical research programs.

  • 2019

    Operations team assembled to strengthen capabilities in clinical and pharmaceutical development, regulatory affairs and access to the rare diseases market.

  • 2020

    Academic Phase III European clinical trial (OTBB3) launched.

  • 2021

    OTBB3 Follow-up study begins, conducted as an extension of the OTBB3 study.

  • 2022

    « Compassionate use program available in France according to local regulations.

  • 2025

    Publication of clinical research work started by Pr Maithé Tauber in neonates and infants with Prader Willi syndrome (Valette, 2025).

  • 2025

    OTBB3 Follow up study completed.

  • 2026

    Publication of results from the Phase III European clinical research program (OTBB3 and OTBB3 Follow-up; Tauber, 2026).