Pfizer and MDRNA to collaborate on RNAi research

Pfizer has entered into a new research partnership with biotechnology company MDRNA into the potential applications of RNA interference (RNAi) technology.

The collaboration will see Pfizer take advantage of MDRNA’s proprietary di-alkylated amino acids platform and UsiRNA constructs to pursue a number of clinical targets.

Among MDRNA’s responsibilities under the agreement will be the development of Pfizer oligonucleotides in DiLA2 formulations, for in vivo preclinical evaluation.

Michael French, president and chief executive officer of MDRNA, hailed the commitment that Pfizer has made towards the research into RNAi therapies.

He added: “This is a significant opportunity for MDRNA to again demonstrate the broad capabilities of its world-class research team and proprietary drug discovery engine.”

Last month, Pfizer revealed that it will be participating in the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation, a scheme which will see it supply discounted medication to developing nations.