China, Canada and US labs collaborate over neurological disorder therapies
Chinese companies have entered into a research agreement with scientists in the US and Canada to develop a therapy for neurological disorders by using the natural power of the immune system.
Announced on April 7, the collaboration involves Chinese companies I-MAB Biopharma and Jiangsu Nhwa Pharmaceutical (Nhwa), which develop and manufacture central nervous system drugs.
I-MAB and Nhwa have entered into the agreement with scientists at the US-based Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Also party to the agreement is Canada-based biologic contract development and manufacturer Biodextris.
Under the terms, the parties will combine resources and expertise in basic science, translational research, clinical development, manufacturing and commercialisation of the therapy.
The Bringham team will be responsible for preclinical development including biomarker discovery and validation, as well as early clinical studies.
Biodextris will be responsible for manufacturing clinical materials.
I-Mab and Nhwa will provide financial, technical, regulatory and business support for preclinical and clinical development, and potentially future commercialisation.
Zheru Zhang, president of I-MAB, welcomed the deal.
“We believe that this type of partnership between the industry and a leading academic institute will accelerate not only drug development but also scientific advancement. We're very pleased to be part of this international collaboration," he said.
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