Merck, a global science and technology player, announced a strategic partnership with Promega Corporation, a leading life science solutions provider based in Madison, Wisconsin, USA. The collaboration aims to co-develop advanced technologies that will redefine drug screening and discovery using three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems.
Combining Expertise to Revolutionize Drug Discovery
The partnership brings together Merck’s strengths in organoid technology and synthetic chemistry with Promega’s cutting-edge assay and reporter technologies. Together, the companies plan to create real-time cellular activity assays using an innovative reporter system integrated within 3D cell cultures—also known as organoids.
Unlike conventional two-dimensional (2D) models, organoids better replicate human biology, providing researchers with more physiologically relevant models for testing drug efficacy and safety. This next-generation approach could lead to faster, more accurate, and more predictive drug discovery workflows.
Enabling Faster and Safer Drug Development
Anand Nambiar, Head of Science and Lab Solutions for the Life Science business of Merck, said, “This partnership with Promega shows what is possible when two companies with a shared commitment to science join forces. By combining our organoid expertise with Promega’s advanced reporter technology, we aim to enable high-throughput screening that helps researchers identify safer and more effective drug candidates for complex diseases such as cancer—and do it faster than ever before.”
Expanding Research Possibilities Through Integrated Technologies
Tom Livelli, Vice President, Life Sciences Products and Services at Promega Corporation, stated, “Collaborating with Merck allows us to push the boundaries of drug discovery. By combining our technological strengths, we are helping to create more relevant and accessible models for drug discovery, with the goal of enabling new insights and eventually better outcomes for patients.”
Exploring Synergies Between Duolink® and HiBiT Technologies
In addition to the co-development agreement, the companies have also signed a separate collaboration to explore the integration of Merck’s Duolink® with Promega’s HiBiT technologies. The initiative aims to enhance workflows for studying protein interactions within cells, offering researchers deeper insights into cellular signalling pathways. These insights will support applications in both biologics and small molecule drug discovery, broadening the impact of the partnership across multiple therapeutic areas.
Strengthening Merck’s Leadership in Next-Generation Biology
The partnership marks another significant step in Merck’s strategy to expand its leadership in next-generation biology and drug discovery. In December 2024, Merck acquired HUB Organoids B.V., a pioneer in organoid technology, strengthening its expertise in 3D cell culture and expanding its portfolio with foundational patents, advanced model generation, and high-throughput screening capabilities.
Pioneering the Future of Drug Discovery
By joining forces with Promega, Merck continues to bridge the gap between laboratory discovery and clinical application, empowering researchers to develop more precise and effective therapies. As per company press release, the collaboration underscores a shared vision—to advance science through innovation and create transformative tools that accelerate the discovery of life-changing medicines.
