Switzerland-based Roche has signed an agreement to develop a companion diagnostic (CDx) test for DalCor Pharmaceuticals’ therapeutic dalcetrapib.
Dalcetrapib is being developed to target patients with a specific genotype who have experienced a recent acute coronary syndrome (ACS) event.
Roche molecular diagnostics head Paul Brown said: "At Roche, we understand the importance of forging partnerships that make significant impacts on patient lives.
"Our first companion diagnostic test in cardiovascular disease represents a significant innovation, and leverages our expertise in developing FDA approved CDx tests."
The CDx test being developed by Roche will be used in a phase III clinical trial, which will validate the clinical efficacy of dalcetrapib.
DalCor Pharmaceuticals CEO Robert McNeil said: "The DalCor and Roche collaboration for the genetic testing is the right combination for successful execution of the phase III trial."
The investigational medicine is claimed to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality by more than 39% in patients with a specific genetic profile, as per the analysis of Montreal Heart Institute.
Image: The administration and R&D buildings, Roche Diagnostics Ltd, Rotkreuz. Photo: courtesy of F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.