MedImmune, Joslin to advance metabolic disease research

Both the organizations will jointly work on research projects to identify new drug candidates.

The two parties said they have identified three initial projects with a focus on multiple key areas including protecting and regenerating the insulin-producing beta cells, increasing the caloric utilization of fat depots, and replicating the beneficial effects of bariatric surgery pharmacologically.

MedImmune Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease (CVMD) Innovative Medicines Unit vice-president and head Cristina Rondinone said: "Cardiovascular and metabolic disease (CVMD) is a main therapy area for MedImmune, and we are pleased to enter this new research partnership with Joslin Diabetes Center to identify and translate the most promising emerging science into novel drug development projects with the potential to help patients suffering with diabetes, obesity and other metabolic diseases.

"Joslin Diabetes Center is world-renowned for metabolic disease research, and will be an important partner for MedImmune and AstraZeneca as we continue our commitment to improve diabetes management and care through the development of innovative medicines."

This partnership will combine the discovery research and clinical care expertise at Joslin with MedImmune’s development capabilities to move these projects from important new concepts to treatments that could benefit patients suffering from metabolic diseases.

As part of the deal, MedImmune will offer research funding as well as drug development expertise, while Joslin will bring early metabolic disease research and clinical care infrastructure.

Aditionally, MedImmune will have the option to license development and commercial rights to projects emerging from the collaboration.

Image: MedImmune headquarters in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Photo: courtesy of MedImmune, LLC.