Zydus Cadila and Eli Lilly announce research collaboration

The alliance seeks to increase productivity in drug discovery and development by synergizing the unique strengths of both companies. The collaborative research program may continue for a span of up to six years.

Zydus will work to discover and develop potential molecules against a novel target, primarily in the area of cardiovascular research. Zydus will initiate the drug discovery, lead identification and optimization, and conduct preclinical studies and clinical trials up to Phase II human proof-of-concept. Lilly will provide chemical starting points as well as expertise and feedback regarding toxicology, ADME, chemistry, biology, clinical and regulatory aspects as needed to potentially increase the probability of success of the program.

As part of the agreement, Lilly will have an option to license any resulting molecules at different stages. Zydus would receive potential milestone payments of up to $300 million and royalties on sales upon the successful launch of any compounds derived from the research program.

William Chin, vice president of discovery research and clinical investigation at Lilly, said: “We look forward to working with Zydus in this novel discovery collaboration. We believe Zydus has unique capabilities to discover and advance these candidates through early development, and we are excited to explore this innovative drug discovery and development model with them.”