Sun Pharma in collaboration with Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel & Health Research Institute of Santiago, Spain for brain therapies

Adopts novel approach towards development of a treatment for glioblastoma, a lethal form of brain cancer

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries has entered into a tripartite research and option agreement with Israel-based Weizmann Institute of Science and Spain’s Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS) to develop breakthrough products for the treatment of  neurological diseases like brain stroke, as well as glioblastoma, a lethal brain cancer.

Scientists at Weizmann Institute have developed a recombinant enzyme currently undergoing animal studies for indications of brain stroke and glioblastoma. Further studies of this enzyme will be conducted at the Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Moreover, this enzyme may potentially be indicated for uses beyond these two brain diseases. As per the signed triparty agreement, Sun Pharma will have the first right to develop these additional indications.

Sun Pharma will have the exclusive option to conduct further development of the enzyme after completion of the preclinical studies. The company will have commercial rights to this product globally. It will also fund all future studies to be conducted on the enzyme. The tripartite research collaboration agreement has been signed between Sun Pharma, Yeda Research & Development Company (the commercial arm of the Weizmann Institute of Science), and Fundacion Ramón Domínguez (on behalf of IDIS). Based on outcome of animal studies, Sun Pharma will have an option to exercise rights for further development and commercialisation of the enzyme.