Genomics plc announces extension of drug discovery collaboration with Vertex

Companies confirm a two-year extension of their collaboration using genomics and machine learning to identify novel targets for innovative medicines and accelerate drug discovery

03 November 2021

Genomics plc today announced a two-year extension of their collaboration with Vertex Pharmaceuticals (VRTX) to use human genetics and machine learning to improve discovery of targets for precision medicines. The companies are also working together to advance understanding of the clinical impact of human genetic variation and patient stratification in serious diseases.

The three-year collaboration, extendable to five years, was established in 2018 to further Vertex’s efforts to develop transformative precision medicines for diseases with significant unmet need.

Genomics plc is a pioneering healthcare company that aims to transform health through the power of genomics. Genomics plc uses large-scale genetic information to realise preventative medicine, precision healthcare and improve drug discovery.

Dr. David Altshuler, Executive Vice President Global Research, and Chief Scientific Officer, Vertex: “We have benefitted from working with the world class team at Genomics. With this extension, we will continue to identify and characterize the human biology of promising new targets, with the goal of advancing new programs into research and development. This is exciting and transformative work at the frontiers of human genetics, data sciences and drug discovery.”

Professor Sir Peter Donnelly FRS, FMedSci, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Genomics plc: “Our collaboration with the team at Vertex has demonstrated the power of genetics for the discovery and validation of novel drug targets, and for biomarker selection and patient stratification. We are proud to extend this partnership to apply our unique platform for target discovery and validation, finding genetically-validated targets that others cannot see. Vertex is rightly recognised for its innovative pipeline and track record in developing treatments for serious diseases, which benefit the patients, families and healthcare systems coping with these often life-threatening conditions.”

Contact
Mark Saxon, Director of Communications, Genomics plc
Mark.saxon@genomicsplc.com
+44 7584 583236