Bristol-Myers Squibb is partnering with Vanderbilt University on the discovery, development, and commercialization of mGLR4 glutamate receptor-targeting positive allosteric modulator (PAM) drugs for Parkinson’s disease. Under terms of the agreement the Vanderbilt Center for Neuroscience Drug Discovery (VCNDD) will identify candidates from its existing program. BMS retains the right to develop and commercialize products emerging from collaborative research.
Under terms of the deal Vanderbilt will receive an up-front payment and multiyear research funding to continue its discovery efforts, plus development milestones and future sales royalties. The University’s PAM modulator program has been supported by the Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) for Parkinson’s Research. “The long-term commitment of and collaboration with the MJFF were critical to advancing this program to the stage where it is now perfectly positioned to work closely with Bristol-Myers Squibb for further development,” remarks P. Jeffrey Conn, Ph.D., VCNDD director and Lee E. Limbird, chair in pharmacology. “Partnering with Bristol-Myers Squibb is a real win for Vanderbilt and for Parkinson’s patients.”
