France-based NovAliX has entered into a fragment-based drug discovery project with Japanese biopharmaceutical firm Kyowa Hakko Kirin.
The deal, which is a continuation of the alliance announced in January 2013, builds upon the positive results already generated by the NovAliX biophysical platform.
As part of the deal, both the companies will start research against a new clinically significant target involving the discovery of new small molecules that modulate protein-protein interaction.
Initially, NovAliX will create lead candidates using its Graffinity screening platform and the ensuing 'hits' will be elaborated by its in-house teams of biophysical and chemistry experts.
The biophysical toolbox includes a broad spectrum of instrumental techniques employed iteratively to support the activities of synthetic organic, computational and medicinal chemists.
The deal will see NovAliX receive technology access fees as well as further research funding payments and milestones.
NovAliX president Stephan Jenn said, "The collaboration with a leading Japanese pharmaceutical company underlines the value offered by the NovAliX integrated drug discovery platforms; platforms designed and proven to deliver not only hits and but also optimized lead compounds."
NovAliX offers chemistry and biophysical technologies to support the pharmaceutical industry's outsourcing needs from discovery to manufacturing.
With its Graffinity SPR technology, X-ray protein crystallography, native mass spectrometry and chemistry, the company provides comprehensive integrated services for small molecule drug discovery.