Dako to collaborate with Pfizer on companion diagnostics

Dako and Pfizer have agreed a new collaboration agreement in the field of companion diagnostics, covering a range of future projects.

Constituting a legal framework for various collaborative initiatives between the two companies, the deal covers research, development, commercialisation and advisory services.

Pfizer will be able to use Dako's expertise in this field as a springboard for the creation of new precision medicines, which are able to be matched to the specific individuals most likely to benefit from them.

It follows on from an earlier agreement with Lilly that will see Dako create companion diagnostics for new cancer therapies from the pharmaceutical company.

Lars Holmkvist, chief executive officer of Dako and senior vice-president for parent company Agilent, said: "This collaboration is testimony to the level of expertise and service Dako is committed to delivering to our partners in companion diagnostics."

Dako has been a part of the Agilent group since June 2012, when a $2.2 billion merger agreement between the companies was finalised.