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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – REYKJAVIK, Iceland, October 12, 2011 — deCODE genetics today announced that it has entered into a research collaboration with Pfizer Inc., the objective of which is to discover sequence variants associated with specific clinical phenotypes related to Systemic Lupus Erythematosis by utilizing deCODE’s expertise in gene discovery.
deCODE’s discovery capabilities combine its extensive population and
genetic resources, including DNA samples and medical data, complete
genealogical information, next generation sequencing technology, and
deCODE’s proprietary bioinformatics and statistical capabilities. Over the
next 18 months, deCODE and Pfizer will work together to analyse the genomes
of patients to search for sequence variants that would be useful for
understanding drug targets and discovering novel drug targets, that may
ultimately lead to tools for patient stratification and companion
diagnostics.
“This agreement is a part of deCODE’s ongoing strategy to unleash the
value of human genetics,” said Kari Stefansson, founder and CEO of deCODE,
“our research platform allows us to understand the genetic basis of disease
and modifiers of clinical phenotypes in actual patient populations; by doing
so, we can rapidly move from targets to patient stratification and from
there to companion diagnostics.”
The research collaboration will utilize the expertise and capabilities
of both deCODE and Pfizer: deCODE’s comprehensive population genetics
resources and analytical expertise and Pfizer’s dedication to the
application of genomic analysis to the discovery and development of drugs.
About deCODE
Headquartered in Reykjavik, Iceland, deCODE genetics is a global leader
in analyzing and understanding the human genome. Using its unique expertise
and population resources, deCODE has discovered genetic risk factors for
dozens of common diseases ranging from cardiovascular disease to cancer.
In order to most rapidly realize the value of genetics for human health,
deCODE is currently partnering with life sciences companies to accelerate
their target discovery, validation, and prioritization efforts, yielding
improved patient stratification for clinical trials and essential companion
diagnostics. In addition, through its CLIA- and CAP-certified laboratory,
deCODE offers DNA-based tests for gauging risk and empowering prevention of
common diseases. deCODE also licenses its tests, intellectual property, and
analytical tools to partner organizations. deCODE’s corporate information
can be found at http://www.decode.com with information about our genetic
testing services at http://www.decodehealth.com and
http://www.decodeme.com
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