Pfizer links up with deCODE to search for lupus drug targets

Global drugs behemoth Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) has teamed up with Iceland-based genomics firm deCODE genetics, with the objective to discover sequence variants associated with specific clinical phenotypes related to systemic lupus erythematosis by utilizing deCODE's expertise in gene discovery. Financial terms of the collaboration have not been disclosed.

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 chief executive of deCODE, noting that "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."