The strategic partnership is aimed at jointly developing a new immuno-stimulatory therapy for certain neurologic disorders.

I-Mab Biopharma, a Shanghai-based biotech company, along with the CNS (Central Nervous System) drug development company Jiangsu Nhwa Pharmaceutical, has signed a collaborative research agreement with the world-recognized scientists and clinicians at Biodextris, the biologics contract development & manufacturing organization, and Ann Romney CND (Center for Neurologic Diseases) at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.

Reportedly, the strategic partnership is aimed at jointly developing a new immuno-stimulatory therapy for certain neurologic disorders, with the deployment of the natural power of the immune system. As per the terms of the agreement, the parties are expected to combine their expertise and resources in translational research, basic science, clinical development, manufacturing & commercialization, for speeding up the translation of innovative immunotherapies into the clinic, for some of the most challenging diseases with the greatest unmatched medical needs.

According to a press release issued by I-Mab Biopharma, the Brigham team will be accountable for the preclinical development such as biomarker discovery & validation, and preliminary clinical studies. Biodextris on the other hand, will contribute to CMC development & manufacturing of clinical materials. Sources added that I-Mab and Nhwa will be providing all technical, financial, regulatory and business support for both preclinical and clinical development, along with future commercialization.  

Dr. Zheru Zhang, President, I-Mab, was reportedly quoted saying that the Brigham is globally recognized for its innovation and brilliance in the area of patient care and biomedical research. The latest international collaboration between the industry and a top academic institute is believed to accelerate drug development and scientific advancement as well. He added that I-Mab shares the same goal and has been consistently striving to provide patients around the world with innovative treatments.

Howard L Weiner, Co-director at the Ann Romney Center, said that the advancement of a nasal immune modulator used in vaccines is an exceptional approach towards the treatment of a neurologic disease and moreover, is potent enough to majorly impact the disease prevalence on a global level.