Bayer and the Broad Institute announced on June 11, 2025, that they have extended their cardiovascular research collaboration by an additional five years, building on a decade-long partnership that has already produced its first clinical-stage therapeutic. The expanded agreement will focus on joint precision cardiology target identification and the discovery of novel therapeutic approaches based on human genomics research.
Clinical Progress Demonstrates Partnership Success
The collaboration has achieved a significant milestone with Bayer's announcement in May 2025 of initiating a Phase I study for its investigational highly selective G-protein-coupled inwardly rectifying potassium channel 4 (GIRK4) inhibitor. This compound has potential to help control the electrical activity of heart cells in patients with atrial fibrillation, representing the first joint therapeutic project to enter clinical trials.
"The first joint therapeutic project entered the clinic last month and we are excited to collaborate further with the esteemed scientists at the Broad Institute to identify and develop disease-modifying therapeutics treating underlying causes of cardiovascular diseases," said Andrea Haegebarth, Ph.D., Global Head of Research and Early Development for Cardiovascular, Renal, and Immunology at Bayer's Pharmaceuticals Division.
Focus on Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Precision Medicine
Current research efforts are directed toward developing potential treatment options for patients with specific forms of cardiovascular disease, particularly dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). DCM is characterized by the enlargement of the heart's chambers, which leads to decreased ability to pump blood effectively and can result in heart failure and other complications if left untreated.
The partnership leverages an established human cardiomyocyte platform to rapidly validate observations and advance precision cardiology approaches. This strategy emphasizes the rapid identification of the most promising targets and commercially viable programs in cardiovascular research.
Strategic Research Alliance
Established in 2013, the collaboration combines the Broad Institute's extensive expertise in genomics and biology with Bayer's experience in small molecule and biologics drug discovery. The strategic research alliance has already resulted in multiple joint publications and conference presentations.
"By working together, Broad and Bayer are able to make advances that neither organization could make on its own," said Todd Golub, director and founding core member of the Broad Institute.
Geographic Proximity Enhances Collaboration
Bayer's Research & Innovation Center (BRIC) is strategically located near the Broad Institute in Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA. BRIC houses both precision oncology research capabilities and an experienced team focused on research and early development for precision cardiovascular, renal, and immunology therapeutics. The facility also hosts Bayer Co.Lab Cambridge, part of a global network of life science incubators focused on disruptive innovation.
Addressing Unmet Medical Needs
The extended collaboration aligns with Bayer's broader strategy to transform its portfolio into precision cardiology, addressing high cardiovascular disease burden and driving long-term growth. Academic collaborations are integral to Bayer's research and development strategy, particularly in areas with significant unmet medical needs such as cardiovascular health.
"We are constantly evaluating novel approaches to treat cardiovascular diseases that affect millions of people worldwide. Our shared commitment is to explore novel therapeutic targets and modalities in various cardiovascular and renal diseases to help deliver new treatment options to patients in need," Haegebarth stated.
Financial details of the extended collaboration have not been disclosed. Bayer's portfolio already includes several innovative cardiovascular products as well as compounds in various stages of preclinical and clinical development.
