Abbott inks pact for neglected tropical diseases study

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Updated: March 1, 2012 8:44AM

ABBOTT PARK — A new partnership between Abbott Laboratories and Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative has been undertaken to advance research and development for neglected tropical diseases.

DNDi and Abbott signed a four-year joint research and non-exclusive licensing agreement to undertake research on new treatments for several of the world’s most neglected tropical diseases, including Chagas disease, helminth infections, leishmaniasis and sleeping sickness, the company said Monday. DNDi and Abbott scientists will focus initial efforts on discovering and advancing new antimicrobial agents with activity against the neglected diseases.

Since 2009, Abbott has provided compounds for DNDi, a nonprofit allied with a number of global health organizations, including Doctors without Borders, to screen for activity against neglected diseases. The company said the pact expands the relationship, and allows DNDi access to selected classes of molecules and accompanying data generated by Abbott that are crucial to accelerating development of effective and accessible new treatments for neglected diseases.

“Innovative product development partnerships have significant potential for addressing neglected diseases,” said Dr. John Leonard, senior vice president, Pharmaceuticals, Research and Development, Abbott. “By combining the unique scientific expertise and resources of DNDi and Abbott, we look forward to accelerating research to find practical new treatment options for people affected by these diseases.”

Abbott said equitable access to treatments for neglected diseases in all endemic countries, not only least-developed countries, is at the core of the agreement. DNDi has committed to ensuring the lowest sustainable pricing for any products developed and distributed as a result of the agreement.

Under the agreement, Abbott has the right of first negotiation to become DNDi’s development and distribution partner. DNDi is free to engage other partners if Abbott chooses not to serve as a development and distribution partner.