Regulus Therapeutics, a joint venture between Isis Pharmaceuticals and Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, is a biopharmaceutical company created to discover, develop, and commercialize microRNA therapeutics. Regulus has assembled a world-class advisory board in the field of microRNA research to lead this new venture. In addition, Regulus combines the strengths of Isis' and Alnylam's technologies, know-how, and intellectual properties.
microRNAs represent a new approach for the treatment of human disease. Most RNAs, such as messenger RNAs (mRNAs), are transcribed from genes and are used to make proteins through the process of translation. microRNAs are believed to be extremely important for human development, normal physiology, and disease.
Regulus focuses its R&D efforts, initially, in multiple therapeutic areas. Two programs, miR-122 and miR-21, investigate multiple therapeutic opportunities for these two microRNAs. In addition, Regulus' scientist and collaborators are investigating more than 60 microRNAs that are associated with a wide array of diseases.
The combination of Isis' and Alnylam's intellectual property (IP) estates for microRNA therapeutics creates what we believe is an unparalleled patent position for pharmaceutical products that target microRNAs. This includes a portfolio of over 900 patents and patent applications, of which over 600 are issued.
