Germany – Saudi Arabia Tie – Up To Boost Rare Disease Testing

Centogene, a life science company based in Germany that specializes in rare and neurodegenerative diseases, and Lifera, a biopharmaceutical company owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), have joined forces in a strategic collaboration.

They have formed a Joint Venture (JV) with the aim of enhancing local and regional availability and expedited delivery of top-notch multiomic testing to patients in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. As part of the agreement, Lifera will provide Centogene with a mandatory convertible loan of $30 million.

The partnership will leverage Centogene’s expertise in diagnostics and multiomics, along with Lifera’s strong local presence and resources, to establish widespread access to cutting-edge genetic sequencing that caters to the specific needs of the region.

The JV will establish an advanced laboratory and bioinformatics infrastructure by utilizing the Centogene Biodatabank, which is the world’s largest repository of real-world integrated multiomic data for rare and neurodegenerative diseases. This bio databank holds over 70 million patient datasets, including more than 35,000 from Saudi Arabia.

The JV, in collaboration with Centogene, will develop genetic testing and interpretation capabilities, serving as a platform for large-scale national screening and genomics programs. This will provide patients in Saudi Arabia and the GCC with enhanced access to advanced diagnostic solutions, aligning with Lifera’s strategic goals and improving healthcare outcomes in the region.