Regeneron IDs gene variant tied to NASH, partners with Alnylam

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:REGN) partnered with Alnylam Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ:ALNY) to develop RNAi therapeutics that target the hydroxysteroid 17-beta dehydrogenase 13 (HSD17B13) gene to treat non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. In a paper published March 21 in the New England Journal of Medicine, a team led by Regeneron researchers identified a loss-of-function variant in the gene associated with a reduced risk of various chronic liver diseases.

Regeneron will contribute its research on HSD17B13, and Alnylam will use its RNAi therapeutics technology to identify compounds against the target. The partners said they plan to enter a separate deal to research, co-develop and commercialize any compounds that result from the discovery collaboration, with the companies equally splitting investments and profits. Regeneron declined to disclose details, but told BioCentury the partners could have a candidate in the clinic within two years...