In the second deal between the companies in the space of 2 years, AbbVie and Galapagos have partnered to discover, develop and commercialise novel oral therapies for cystic fibrosis (CF) that target the main mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) protein. The first preclinical candidate from the collaboration is expected to be nominated later in 2013. With the deal, the two companies are ultimately looking to compete with Vertex Pharmaceuticals, which in January 2012 received US FDA approval for Kalydeco™ (ivacaftor), the first available disease-modifying therapy for CF.