As part of a global collaboration for the development of epigenetics-based therapeutics, Roche has licensed global rights to Oryzon Genomics’ lead drug candidate ORY-1001, an inhibitor of the epigenetic modulator lysine specific demethylase-1 (LSD1; KDM1A) that is in Phase I/IIa development for acute myeloid leukaemia. The deal also includes a 2-year collaborative research programme between Oryzon and Roche’s Translational Clinical Research Center that aims to increase understanding of the potential of LSD1 inhibitors in oncology and haematology. Roche followed the deal with an antibiotics R&D partnership with start-up Spero Therapeutics.