Eisai and Johns Hopkins University agree new alliance

Eisai has entered into a new alliance with Johns Hopkins University, which will focus on the development of new treatments for neurological conditions.

The pharmaceutical company will be allying with the Johns Hopkins Brain Science Institute (JHBSi) with the aim of accelerating drug development in the neurology field.

Under the terms of the agreement, Eisai will be provided with novel neurological drug discovery targets that have been identified by the university's scientists, with JHBSi to be given access to Eisai's proprietary library of chemical compounds in return.

This work will be conducted in accordance with Eisai's Open Innovation Model, with the university to assume a prominent role in further research initiatives and receive milestone payments based on successful developments.

"Eisai defines neurology as a therapeutic area of focus and has entered into this partnership with JHU as part of its commitment to uncovering the causes of disease," the company said.

Last month, the company commenced a phase III trial of a new combination therapy for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, alongside its developmental partner Helsinn Group.