Allelix Biopharmaceuticals Inc. and the Groupe Fournier of Parisentered into a research agreement to discover and develop therapies forthe treatment of atherosclerosisFournier already markets LIPIDIL (fenofibrate), a lipid-lowering agent,in more than 60 countries for atherosclerosis. The collaboration willcombine Fournier's know-how in lipids with the transcription targetingtherapeutics (3T) of Toronto-based Allelix.Allelix will receive up-front payments, research support and milestonepayments in the three-year renewable collaboration, as well as royaltieson products developed through the collaboration. Douglas Froom,Allelix's vice president, business development, told BioWorld hiscompany's research will be fully funded as it relates to thecollaboration, the specific terms of which won't be disclosed.Fournier and Allelix will develop drugs affecting the metabolism oflipids through altering gene regulation. Allelix uses its 3T technologyin its anti-viral agent, ALX40-4C, for HIV, which has finished a PhaseI trial and is near entering Phase I/II testing."This is an opportunity to expand our 3T technology," Froom said.`We think it's a fundamental approach to developing a product."Allelix's other product in clinical trials is ALX1-11, parathyroidhormone, for osteoporosis. Allelix and joint venture partner GlaxoCanada Inc. have the drug in Phase I trials. _ Jim Shrine

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