Epizyme, Inc. announced that it has entered into a collaboration agreement with Roche Holding AG’s (RHHBY Quick QuoteRHHBY - Free Report) Genentech to evaluate its first-in-class EZH2 inhibitor, tazemetostat, in combination Genentech's Tecentriq (atezolizumab). The combination will be evaluated in a phase Ib study for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

As per the terms of the agreement, Genentech will manage study operations for the phase Ib study, which is expected to begin in the second half of 2016.

We note that tazemetostat is being developed for the treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and certain genetically defined solid tumors. Currently, the candidate is being evaluated in a phase II study for the treatment of adults with relapsed or refractory NHL, a phase II study in adults with certain genetically defined solid tumors and a phase I study in children with certain genetically defined solid tumors.

Meanwhile, the company plans to initiate a phase II study on tazemetostat for the treatment of patients with mesothelioma in the third quarter of 2016.

We remind investors that the company has been pursuing strategic partnerships to evaluate tazemetostat in combination with other therapies. Last month, Epizyme entered into a collaboration agreement with the Lymphoma Study Association (LYSA) to evaluate tazemetostat, in combination with R-CHOP, as a front-line treatment in patients with DLBCL. A phase Ib/II study is expected to be initiated shortly.

Epizyme currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). A couple of better-ranked stocks in the health care sector include ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (ANIP Quick QuoteANIP - Free Report) and Pfizer Inc. (PFE Quick QuotePFE - Free Report) , both sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).

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