Pfizer inks another RNA research agreement

Pfizer announces Jan. 3 a non-exclusive licensing agreement with Sigma-Aldrich for access to company's DNA-directed RNAi technology. According to Sigma-Aldrich, ddRNAi has advantages over other RNAi therapies, including a wider range of ways to deliver molecules into a target cell, the ability to simultaneously disable multiple genes and the ability to control the expression and timing of gene silencing. The Sigma-Aldrich deal is the second RNAi licensing agreement for Pfizer in the last six months. In September, Pfizer gained a worldwide license for Quark Biotech's RTP-801 gene, which targets wet age-related macular degeneration. Merck has also been actively investing in RNAi technology with the recent acquisitions of Sirna and Artemis...