Pfizer, NWU sign MOU for potential collaboration on pre-clinical R&D

The partnership may include the potential use of Pfizer's genetically modified animal models, for the evaluation of the safety and efficacy profile of therapeutic molecules in oncology, inflammation, immunology, central nervous system, and cardiovascular system disorders. The partnership is subject to further discussion and the final agreement of terms and conditions.

"Innovative collaborations that advance science and patient health are one of the key components of the company's overall research and development strategy. We hope that in time this partnership with NWU will produce scientific and medical advances for patients in South Africa and beyond. We salute the South African government for fostering an environment that encourages and rewards investments in innovative research," said Mikael Dolsten, MD, PhD, president of worldwide research and development at Pfizer.

Pfizer's R&D site in La Jolla served as backdrop for the signing of the MOU between Dr Gabriela G Cezar, Pfizer's head of external R&D innovation for Brazil, Latin America and South Africa, and Professor Anne Grobler, director of NWU's Pre-Clinical Drug Development Platform (PCDDP), where the joint research project will be conducted.

"We are grateful for the company's investment and willingness to partner with the university in pre-clinical research, a field that is a high priority in drug development. We are particularly enthusiastic about the milestones we may be able to reach in the areas of infectious and chronic diseases that are so relevant to our South African society," said Professor Grobler.

Support from Department of Science and Technology

With a permanent staff of 14 scientists, the PCDDP is a state-of-the-art, pre-clinical facility that functions as a national study platform and supplies the infrastructure for qualitative and quantitative pre-clinical studies for researchers across South Africa.

The pre-clinical work conducted here and its safety models in combination with its bio-analytical expertise, enables a faster drug discovery process and an increase in the quality of compounds taken further in the research and development process. The PCDDP was initiated and is largely financed by the South African government's Department of Science and Technology.

"This agreement is a testament to the innovative spirit that characterises both partners. The development of the South African pharmaceutical sector is a key component of our national bio-economy strategy, so we are delighted to witness the very first step in this new partnership," said Mmboneni Muofhe, deputy director general of the Department of Science and Technology.

Pfizer believes that deeper and stronger collaborations are key to expediting the translation of science into breakthrough therapies for patients. The company's worldwide research and development organisation is committed to advancing new models of partnership with creativity, flexibility, and openness to deliver innovation quickly, regardless of where the talent and resources live. This includes working with patient foundations, patients, government, payers, healthcare professionals, academia, and other leading bio-pharma companies.