NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) – Molecular diagnostics firm Diamir announced today that it has formed a research collaboration with Janssen Pharmaceuticals, a unit of Johnson & Johnson, for the potential development of a microRNA-based companion diagnostic for neurodegenerative disease drug candidates.
Founded in 2009, Diamir is using its technology to develop assays that use blood-based miRNA signatures to diagnose neurodegenerative conditions including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and mild cognitive impairment.
Under the terms of their deal, the companies will evaluate the utility of Diamir's technology in the clinical development of Janssen's neurodegenerative disease drug candidates. Janssen has also been granted an option to negotiate a license to the technology for use as a companion diagnostic for use with certain of its therapeutic products.
In exchange, Diamir will receive undisclosed research funding and milestone payments.
Additional terms were not disclosed.