Agilent Technologies is partnering with the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology in South Korea to carry out new research into diseases affecting the brain.

The Asian institute has opened a new Neurometabolomics Excellence Research Center, which will utilise Agilent's bioanalytical instruments in its studies of biomarkers for early detection and diagnosis of brain diseases.

“Agilent Technologies has announced a neurometabolomics research collaboration with the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology.“

Neurometabolomics is the set of biochemical reactions that rely on oxygen and glucose in order for the brain to perform its tasks. Staff at the new facility will examine metabolic materials of brain cells to determine their impact on physiological functions and behaviours.

Agilent has been working with the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute since 2012, providing it with early access to novel technology and software development to meet its research needs.

Rod Minett, general manager of Agilent's life sciences business in South Korea and the south Asia-Pacific region, said: "The brain is arguably the most important organ in the human body and Agilent supports the quest to help scientific and medical communities further neuroscience discovery for the good of mankind."

The company will be sharing its financial results for the fourth quarter of its 2013 business year on November 14th.