Cenix BioScience Delivers on Target Discovery Collaboration as Bayer HealthCare AG Acquires Potential Novel Therapeutic Targets Identified by RNAi Screening.DRESDEN, Germany -- Cenix BioScience GmbH (Dresden), the leading specialist in advanced RNA interference RNA interference n. A process in which the introduction of double-stranded RNA into a cell inhibits the expression of genes. (RNAi)-based research services, today announced that it has delivered a collection of potential novel therapeutic targets to one of its pharmaceutical partners, Bayer HealthCare AG (Leverkusen). The targets were identified as part of a RNAi-based discovery collaboration whereby cell-based assays originally developed by Bayer scientists to probe therapeutically-relevant processes for several disease indications were adapted and optimized by Cenix to be run as high throughput (HT) RNAi screens. Cenix implemented the screens over more than 5,000 human genes, applying its industry-leading expertise in combining HT-RNAi with high content microscopy-based readouts, and using siRNA molecules designed by Cenix and produced by Ambion, Inc. (Austin, TX, USA). The method of identification, based on detailed analysis of RNAi-induced loss-of-function phenotypes in living human cells, conveys upon these targets a significantly stronger patho-physiological relevance than that typically seen for targets identified by less probative Having the effect of proof, tending to prove, or actually proving. When a legal controversy goes to trial, the parties seek to prove their cases by the introduction of evidence. "first-wave" genomics methodologies of recent years. As such, the higher level of validation delivered by Cenix inherently offers superior predictive value pre·dic·tive value n. The likelihood that a positive test result indicates disease or that a negative test result excludes disease. predictive value a measure used by clinicians to interpret diagnostic test results. regarding the future therapeutic potential of drug candidates developed from these targets. "We are delighted that our expertise has proven useful in this particularly gratifying grat·i·fy tr.v. grat·i·fied, grat·i·fy·ing, grat·i·fies 1. To please or satisfy: His achievement gratified his father. See Synonyms at please. 2. collaboration, bringing such promising, but also quite challenging, projects to fruition" said Dr Christophe Echeverri, CEO (1) (Chief Executive Officer) The highest individual in command of an organization. Typically the president of the company, the CEO reports to the Chairman of the Board. and CSO (Chief Security Officer) The person in charge of all staff members who are responsible for promulgating, enforcing and administering security policies for all systems within an enterprise or division. of Cenix BioScience GmbH. "We are confident that the success of future drug development efforts driven by these new 'RNAi targets' could lead to a fundamental paradigm shift A dramatic change in methodology or practice. It often refers to a major change in thinking and planning, which ultimately changes the way projects are implemented. For example, accessing applications and data from the Web instead of from local servers is a paradigm shift. See paradigm. in the target discovery field." According to according to prep. 1. As stated or indicated by; on the authority of: according to historians. 2. In keeping with: according to instructions. 3. the collaboration announced in December 2003, Bayer acquired the first option to secure all rights to new target-related intellectual property generated by the project. As a result, Bayer's decision to seek patent protection on the present targets triggered unspecified milestone payments to Cenix. Cenix BioScience GmbH Cenix BioScience GmbH is a pioneer and leader in high throughput (HT), genome-driven applications of RNA interference (RNAi) for the discovery and validation of new therapeutic drug targets. Founded in 1999 as the first biotechnology company specializing exclusively in HT-RNAi, Cenix has accumulated unparalleled depth and breadth of experience in this field, combining high content phenotypic phe·no·type n. 1. a. The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism, as determined by both genetic makeup and environmental influences. b. analyses with proprietary genome-wide RNAi libraries for use in key experimental systems, including a wide range of human and rodent cells. Cenix is now making its unique expertise accessible to industry and academic researchers through highly customizable research services. Please contact Cenix or visit the company's web site www.cenix-bioscience.com for more information. Bayer HealthCare AG Bayer HealthCare AG, a subsidiary of Bayer AG Bayer AG German chemical and pharmaceutical company. Founded in 1863 by Friedrich Bayer (1825–1880), it now operates plants in more than 30 countries. Bayer has originated scores of pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and synthetic materials; it was the first developer and , is one of the world's leading, innovative companies in the health care and medical products industry. In 2004, the Bayer HealthCare subgroup generated sales amounting to some 8.5 billion Euro. The company combines the global activities of the divisions Animal Health, Biological Products, Consumer Care, Diabetes Care, Diagnostics and Pharmaceuticals. Bayer HealthCare employed 35,300 people worldwide in 2004. Bayer HealthCare's aim is to discover and manufacture innovative products that will improve human and animal health worldwide. The products enhance well-being and quality of life by diagnosing, preventing and treating disease. |
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