Horizon Discovery (Horizon) today announced it has signed a commercial agreement with Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, relating to its X-MAN technology.
Horizon’s X-MAN (Mutant And Normal) cell-line technology provides the first genetically-defined and patient-relevant in vitro models of human cancer. These models are being used by a growing number of Pharma and Biotech companies to rationalize key steps of the ‘targeted’ drug development process, and thus accelerate and economize the burgeoning field of ‘personalised’ medicine.
The agreement covers the licensing of certain X-MAN cell lines including major cancer causing genes and their matched normal genetic backgrounds. The approach should enable J&J to gather information relating to the selectivity and mode-of-action of their compounds using model in-vitro systems.
“Dr Darrin M Disley, Chairman of Horizon says “it has always been our aim to work with leading players in the Rx and Dx space and we hope to build a long and productive relationship with Janssen moving forward”
Janssen Pharmaceutica NV will pay Horizon undisclosed up-front and renewal fees during the term of the agreement. Work between the parties will begin in August 2009.
