Genzyme and ICGEB form collaboration

The collaboration between Genzyme and the International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) will initially focus on the development of new, improved treatments for malaria.

ICGEB and Genzyme scientists are currently targeting Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, increasingly resistant parasites that cause up to 65% of malaria in India. ICGEB has already begun to identify promising targets that, with the drug development expertise of Genzyme, could lead to drug compounds effective against malaria.

The research will take place both in ICGEB’s laboratories in New Delhi, India and in Genzyme’s facilities in Waltham, Massachusetts, US. Under the agreement, scientists from Genzyme and ICGEB are expected to work in each other’s laboratories from time to time. The collaboration includes an innovative approach to intellectual property rights, providing ICGEB rights to commercial uses within the field of neglected disease on a royalty-free basis, said Genzyme.

Henri Termeer, chairman and CEO of Genzyme, said: “The ICGEB is unlocking new approaches to preventing malaria, and Genzyme is ready build on their momentum and move these promising targets through the drug discovery process, ultimately bringing critical treatments to people at risk in the developing world. We look forward to building a productive, sustainable partnership with ICGEB.”