Roche Enters RNAi Therapeutics Race
Roche (Basel, Switzerland, www.roche.com) and the biopharmaceutical company Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Cambridge, MA, www.alnylam.com), have entered into a major alliance in which Roche obtains a nonexclusive license to Alnylam's technology platform for developing RNAi (RNA interference) therapeutics.
Roche (Basel, Switzerland, www.roche.com) and the biopharmaceutical company Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Cambridge, MA, www.alnylam.com), have entered into a major alliance in which Roche obtains a nonexclusive license to Alnylam’s technology platform for developing RNAi (RNA interference) therapeutics. The alliance will initially cover four therapeutic areas: oncology, respiratory diseases, metabolic diseases, and certain liver diseases.
Alnylam and Roche also will collaborate on RNAi drug discovery for one or more disease targets in these therapeutic areas. In addition, Roche will acquire Alnylam’s European research site located in Kulmbach, Germany (Bavaria), subject to regulatory approval. This site will become Roche’s Center of Excellence for RNAi therapeutics discovery. Under the terms of the agreement, Roche will pay Alnylam $331 million in upfront cash payments and equity investment.
Roche has also acquired NimbleGen Systems, Inc. (Madison, WI, www.nimblegen.com), to gain entry into the high-growth research microarrray market. DNA microarrays are a widely used discovery and research tool in pharma research for the understanding of genetic causes of disease and predisposition factors, comparative genomic analysis, and identification of potential drug targets. Under the terms of the agreement, Roche will pay NimbleGen’s shareholders 272.5 million US dollars.
The Future of Cleanroom Construction: How Hybrid Solutions are Changing the Game
May 14th 2025Imagine a world where cleanroom facilities—essential for pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology, and high-tech industries—are built with unparalleled speed, precision, and efficiency. That world is here, thanks to the hybrid construction approach. By blending traditional stick-built methods with modular and prefabricated solutions, companies are overcoming the limitations of conventional construction while ensuring compliance with stringent industry regulations. In this interview, we explore how hybrid cleanroom construction is transforming the industry, offering faster project timelines, improved quality control, and significant cost advantages. Join us as we delve into this game-changing approach with industry experts who are leading the charge in revolutionizing cleanroom infrastructure.
Mastering Antibody-Drug Conjugates
December 19th 2024In this episode, we explore BIOVECTRA’s capabilities in antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) manufacturing, from complex conjugation chemistry to synthesis of highly potent payloads. We’ll also showcase how BIOVECTRA’s extensive experience in complex chemistries and specialized small molecule manufacturing gives them a unique perspective, strengthening their approach to ADC production and ensuring clients receive custom solutions across all project stages.
Novartis Acquisition of Regulus Therapeutics is Complete
June 25th 2025A key property included in the acquisition is farabursen, an investigational next-generation oligonucleotide targeting the microRNA miR-17 with preferential kidney exposure, intended to treat people with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.
