Pfizer partners with DNA research firm to study lupus

Last Updated: 2015-01-12

By Reuters Staff

(Reuters) - Privately held 23andMe Inc said Pfizer Inc would have access to its research services, helping the pharmaceutical giant better understand systemic lupus erythematosus.

The companies will run a trial on 5,000 people suffering from the chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body, 23andMe said on Monday.

About 5 million people worldwide have a form of lupus, according to the Lupus Foundation of America.

Pfizer is already partnering with the company to study genetic factors associated with the onset and progression of inflammatory bowel disease.

23andMe, founded in 2006, is a DNA analysis services provider.