Janssen launches new scheme to aid brain disease research

Janssen has announced the launch of a new initiative to drive progress in medical research into common disorders affecting the brain.

The Healthy Minds scheme will involve a $3 million (1.89 million pounds) commitment to assist the International Mental Health Research Organization (IMHRO) with its latest project, One Mind for Research.

It involves the promotion of neuroscience research, education and awareness-building programmes, via the creation of collaborative networks and the de-stigmatisation of mental health conditions.

Janssen becomes the first private sector partner to support the scheme, building on the Johnson and Johnson subsidiary's longstanding commitment and achievements in this field of research.

Dr Husseini Manji, global therapeutic area head for neuroscience at Johnson and Johnson pharmaceutical research and development, said: "Rapid advances in science and technology over the past decade provide us with an unprecedented opportunity … but the challenge is too great and the data too vast for any one entity to do it alone."

According to Johnson and Johnson's latest financial report last month, sales of the group's pharmaceutical products rose by 8.9 percent in the third quarter of 2011.