Temple University and India drug developer launch collaboration

Temple University’s Moulder Center for Drug Discovery Research in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has formed a collaboration with India-based GVK Biosciences to identify biomarkers.

GVK Bio will be responsible for the target validation, lead identification and lead optimization of small molecules in selected therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular, metabolic and central nervous system disorders.

The Moulder Center, opened in 2009, underwent an expansion in 2010. Although it is led by Dr. Magid Abou-Gharbia, the associate dean of research for Temple’s School of Pharmacy, it is also utilized by researchers at the university’s medical school and colleges of science and technology, and of engineering. It is intended to foster collaborations between biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, and the academic institution to address cutbacks on research and development costs.

“This business model reflects the increasing trend of collaborations between academic centers of excellence and pharmaceutical companies to discover new drugs,” said Abou-Gharbia. “We are delighted to be working with GVK Bio’s experienced research and discovery team to further leverage both teams’ talents to identify innovative drug candidates.”