Lilly signs new CNS disorder research deal

Eli Lilly has signed an agreement with Suven Life Sciences to research molecules that could combat central nervous system (CNS) disorders.

Suven, an Indian company, specialises in the development of small-molecule drugs that target G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) – the largest protein family involved in stimulus-response pathways. It is hoped that molecules can be developed for the treatment of CNS disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, depression, Parkinson’s disease and vascular dementia, to name a few.

Under the agreement, Lilly will pay Suven for research costs, as well as further payments dependent upon whether Lilly decides to further development and research for one of the molecules.

Dr Ramakrishna Nirogi, vice-president of drug discovery at Suven, remarked: “This effort is a collaboration between Suven and Lilly, with scientists from both parties working together in a team, with the goal of identifying potent, oral compounds that selectively modulate the specified GPCR for the target CNS disease.”

Venkat Jasti, vice-chairman and chief executive officer of Suven, added: “This is our first true research collaboration with a global pharmaceutical company, thereby helping us realise the next step of our strategic vision.”

According to an article published in the Journal of Cell Science in 2003, between a third and a half of all currently-marketed drugs target GPCRs, although only ten per cent are known GPCR targets.

Because of the number of GPCR variants and isoforms, the report claims it is likely that the actual number of GPCRs in the human body will never be known.

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