UCB and Harvard University expand research collaboration

UCB is expanding its collaboration with Harvard University to encompass a second joint research project, which will focus on the creation of small molecule compounds for the induction of autophagy.

This cellular mechanism is used to auto-digest intracellular components and is seen as an important regulator of many critical biological processes, with potential applications in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

UCB will work with the laboratory of Dr Junying Yuan, professor of cell biology at Harvard Medical School, who is a leading authority in the field of molecular research and has won numerous awards for her work.

This alliance is indicative of the company's commitment to a new model of research that aims to encourage innovation through dedicated collaborations.

Ismail Kola, president of UCB NewMedicines, the company's research and early development division, said: "We are delighted with our ongoing translational research collaboration with Harvard and are looking forward to further interactions with Harvard's world-class research enterprise in areas of mutual interest."

This comes after the firm announced a partnership with Oxford University to develop new immunology and neurology treatments earlier this year.