AsianScientist (May 9, 2014) – Eisai Co., Ltd. and the University of Tsukuba will collaborate on a project to develop a new drug for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
The project has been adopted by the Japan Science and Technology Agency’s (JST) Newly extended Technology transfer Program (NexTEP). NexTEP is a system supported by JST for projects that aim to lead joint development between industry and academia toward practical applications.
The collaboration will facilitate the development of the small molecule E6007 discovered by Eisai as a new treatment for IBD. E6007 acts by inhibiting the adhesion and infiltration of multiple leukocyte types via activated integrin inhibitors.
In addition, the project will investigate the use of activated integrins as a clinical biomarker for IBD, a method first developed by Professor Akiyoshi Fukamizu of the Life Science Center of Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance (TARA). They aim to achieve proof of concept and subsequently receive regulatory approval.
Fukamizu said, “Through this project supported by JST, we aim to contribute to the practical application of effective treatments and diagnostic methods for inflammatory bowel diseases.”
Mr. Terushige Iike, President of Eisai Japan/Asia Clinical Research Product Creation Unit, said, “We are now working to be able to deliver results as a new Japanese-developed medicine to patients as soon as possible, and make this project a successful example of co-operation between industry, government and academia.”
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Source: Eisai; Photo: romana klee/Flickr/CC.
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