<GENZYME>, PFIZER <PFE> UNIT IN JOINT VENTURE
Genzyme Corp said it and Howmedica, a
Rutherford, N.J.-based company owned by Pfizer Inc, have agreed
to an initial joint research and development program.
    The company said the venture will focus on using Genzyme's
proprietary technologies to procued hyaluronic acid-based
products for use in orthopedic surgery.
    Hyaluronic acid is a natural water retaining and
lubricating component in the body's soft tissue, and a key part
of certain body fluids.
 Reuter
