MilliporeSigma and Promega Collaborate to Enhance Drug Discovery

MilliporeSigma, the life science division of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, has announced a partnership with Promega Corporation to co-develop innovative technologies aimed at advancing drug screening and discovery. This collaboration combines MilliporeSigma’s expertise in organoids and synthetic chemistry with Promega’s leading assay technologies, enhancing access to disease-relevant cell models for researchers.

The agreement focuses on developing assays capable of monitoring cellular activity in real time within three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures, also known as organoids. These models provide a more physiologically relevant environment for testing compared to traditional two-dimensional (2D) models. The companies aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of drug discovery processes, particularly for complex diseases such as cancer.

Combining Expertise for Enhanced Outcomes

“This partnership with Promega demonstrates what is possible when two companies with a shared commitment to science join forces,” stated Anand Nambiar, Head of Science & Lab Solutions at MilliporeSigma. He emphasized that by merging their organoid expertise with Promega’s advanced reporter technology, they can facilitate high-throughput screening that accelerates the identification of safer and more effective drug candidates.

Promega Corporation’s Vice President of Life Sciences Products & Services, Tom Livelli, echoed this sentiment, noting that the collaboration allows both companies to push the boundaries of drug discovery. Their combined technological strengths aim to create more relevant and accessible models, ultimately leading to new insights and improved patient outcomes.

In addition to the primary co-development agreement, the two organizations have signed a separate agreement to explore the integration of MilliporeSigma’s Duolink® technology with Promega’s HiBiT technologies. This integration is designed to develop new workflows for studying protein interactions within cells, providing researchers with deeper insights into cellular signaling and enhancing applications in biologics and small molecule drug discovery.

Strengthening Leadership in Next-Generation Biology

The partnership with Promega is part of MilliporeSigma’s broader strategy to solidify its leadership in next-generation biology. In December 2024, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, expanded its capabilities by acquiring HUB Organoids B.V., a pioneer in organoid technology. This acquisition not only enhanced MilliporeSigma’s portfolio with foundational patents and advanced model generation but also positioned the company as a leader in providing researchers with essential tools to bridge laboratory discoveries and clinical applications.

MilliporeSigma’s Life Science business operates with a workforce of more than 26,000 employees and includes over 55 manufacturing and testing sites worldwide. The company boasts a diverse portfolio of more than 300,000 products, catering to scientific discovery, biomanufacturing, and testing services. In 2024, Merck KGaA reported sales of €21.2 billion across 65 countries, underscoring its global impact in healthcare, life science, and electronics.

Promega Corporation, headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, has established itself as a leader in providing innovative solutions and technical support to the life sciences industry. With a portfolio exceeding 4,000 products, Promega supports a range of applications, from drug development to molecular diagnostics, utilized by scientists and technicians in various sectors.

This partnership is poised to drive significant advancements in drug discovery, enhancing researchers’ ability to develop treatments for some of the most challenging diseases facing humanity today.