Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Genzyme teams with global R&D org to combat malaria

By Mass High Tech Staff

Neglected diseases, and in particular malaria, will begin getting some attention with the new research collaboration between Cambridge biotech giant Genzyme Corp. and the International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), a nonprofit research organization.

The joint effort will focus on the development of drug compounds that combat the resistant parasites largely responsible for malaria cases in India. Working together, Genzyme and ICGEB will use intellectual property policies that give ICGEB royalty-free rights to commercial use of the drug compounds for neglected diseases.

Founded in 1987 and focused on problems in developing countries. the ICGEB will operate out of its laboratories in New Delhi, India. The organization researches infectious diseases including malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, Hepatitis E, Hepatitis B and dengue.

Founded in 1981, Genzyme (Nasdaq: GENZ) is a global biotech firm focused on rare inherited disorders, kidney disease, cancer, transplant and immune disease, and diagnostic testing. The company announced two weeks ago a deal with Osiris Therapeutics Inc. of Columbia, Md., to bring treatments to market based on adult stem cells, which will see Genzyme investing at least $130 million in Osiris — in a deal worth a potential $1.25 billion.

With 11,000 employees worldwide, Genzyme reported a 2007 profit of $481 million on revenue of $3.8 billion.