Perlegen Sciences Inc. has collaborated with Genentech Inc. to study the genetics of cancer. Findings from the study could potentially be applied to the discovery and development of targeted medicines and molecular diagnostics for the disease.

According to a company release, Perlegen's high throughput oligonucleotide array approach utilises Affymetrix GeneChip technology.

"We look forward to applying Perlegen's expertise to further our understanding of the important role genetics plays in cancer. We are proud to collaborate with Genentech, a recognised leader in oncology therapeutics and pioneer in targeted therapies for cancer patients," said David Cox, chief scientific officer of Perlegen.

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. It has been estimated that approximately one-half of all men and one-third of all women will develop some form of cancer during their lifetimes.

Perlegen Science Inc. is working to provide safer and more effective drugs to consumers. The company analyses millions of genetic variations in DNA samples and uses this information to explain and predict the efficacy and adverse effect profiles of prescription drugs.