Bristol-Myers Squibb and WuXi PharmaTech agree drug analysis alliance

Bristol-Myers Squibb has agreed a deal that will see it utilise the expertise of WuXi PharmaTech to conduct analysis of its new chemical entities.

The strategic partnership will involve the construction of an analytical testing facility in Shanghai that will offer services such as stability testing, sample management, analytical testing and quality assurance.

Bristol-Myers Squibb will utilise this new site for the storage and testing of stability samples in order to support its global dossier submissions, while it will also help to expand the firm's Chinese presence.

This represents the latest phase of a longstanding professional relationship between the two companies.

Dr Mark Powell, senior vice-president for non-clinical development at Bristol-Myers Squibb, said: "It is an example of our research and development organisation executing our company's biopharmaceutical model by using selective integration to leverage the strengths and talents of both Bristol-Myers Squibb and a valued partner."

In January 2011, the company announced a new collaboration with Pharmasset that will see the firms jointly develop a new hepatitis C drug.