Merck partners with BGI to develop biomarkers, genomic technologies

WHITE HOUSE, N.J. — Drug maker Merck has established a collaboration with BGI, the world’s largest genomics center, to focus on the discovery and development of biomarkers and genomic technologies, according to a press release.

Under the agreement, scientists from Merck and BGI will work closely together to identify and characterize biomarkers with an emphasis on drug discovery, drug development and diagnostics applications across a wide range of therapeutic areas.

“This strategic collaboration combines BGI’s genomic sequencing and analytic capabilities with Merck’s expertise and experience in drug development,” said Dr. Jeffrey Chodakewitz, vice president, Late Stage Development, Merck Research Laboratories. “By working together we hope to apply BGI''s comprehensive next-gen sequencing solutions to develop important new tools to aid drug development and enable effective tailoring of medicines to those patients most likely to respond.”