BioCentury
ARTICLE | Company News

Quark Biotech Inc., Alnylam, Pfizer, SR Pharma deal

October 2, 2006 7:00 AM UTC

PFE acquired exclusive worldwide rights to the gene RTP-801 from Quark. PFE said the gene is involved in the development of blood vessels that accelerate the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). PFE also gained rights to molecules that modify RTP-801, including the modified siRNA RTP-801i. The companies expect to begin Phase I testing of RTP-801i in November. Financial terms were not disclosed. SPA's Atugen AG subsidiary (Berlin, Germany), is eligible for up to $95 million in milestone payments plus royalties from Quark as a result of the PFE deal. RTP-801i uses AtuRNAi technology from SPA. ...