Pfizer and 23andMe to carry out new IBD study

Pfizer is allying with 23andMe to carry out a new study that will shed light on the genetic causes of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

The companies aim to enroll 10,000 people with IBD in a research initiative designed to explore genetic factors associated with the onset, progression, severity and response to treatments for conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

To take place in the US, the study will see all patients agree to share a DNA sample, with their genetic data and ancestry to be analysed via 23andMe's Personal Genome Service.

It is hoped that the effort will ultimately lead to the creation of potential new or improved treatments for IBD.

Jose Carlos Gutierrez-Ramos, senior vice-president for biotherapeutics research and development at Pfizer, said: "By enhancing our understanding of the underlying biology of the disease, we hope to better support our clinical research activities and development programmes."

The company is currently taking a number of steps with the aim of expanding its business capabilities, including the recent acquisitions of InnoPharma and the marketed vaccines business of Baxter.