The collaboration will focus on developing novel drug-device combinations incorporating RNAi therapeutics. RNAi, or RNA interference, refers to a technique for silencing targeted genes in a cell, inhibiting their ability to produce particular proteins involved in specific diseases.
Initial development will focus on delivering RNAi therapeutics to specific areas of the brain using novel infusion systems.
Under terms of the collaboration agreement, after successful completion of an initial joint technology development program and a joint decision to initiate product development, Alnylam would be responsible for the discovery and early development of candidate RNAi therapeutics, and Medtronic would be responsible for late-stage development and commercialization of any drug-device products that result.
Medtronic also would adapt or develop medical devices to deliver the candidate RNAi therapeutics to targeted locations in the nervous system.
Under terms of the agreement, after successful completion of an initial joint technology development program and a joint decision to initiate product development, Medtronic would make an initial equity investment in Alnylam and could make additional investments upon successful completion of certain milestones.
Alnylam would then be eligible to receive additional cash milestone payments for each product developed, and royalties on sales of any RNAi therapeutic component of novel drug-device combinations that result from the collaboration.
“We believe that this collaboration with Medtronic, as one of the new collaborations that Alnylam expects to form in 2005, will provide a major boost in the exploration and development of RNAi therapeutics designed to treat important diseases,” said Dr John Maraganore, president and CEO of Alnylam.