University College London (UCL) and Eisai Co., Ltd. have extended their collaboration in drug discovery and development for another five years, continuing their partnership until 2030. This alliance aims to accelerate innovation in neuroscience drug discovery, focusing on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
The partnership between UCL and Eisai, a Tokyo-headquartered pharmaceutical company, has already led to significant outcomes, including the discovery of the anti-MTBR tau antibody E2814. This antibody is currently undergoing evaluation in clinical trials for Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer’s Disease and sporadic early Alzheimer’s Disease.
Since the alliance's inception in 2012, eight drug discovery projects have been supported through a £10 million investment. The renewed agreement will see further investment over the next five years, focusing on advancing promising drug discovery projects and strengthening the research talent pipeline.
The collaboration is marked by a commitment to knowledge exchange, with over 30 scientific outputs shared with the wider community. The renewed agreement will also open opportunities for UCL researchers across disciplines to contribute innovative ideas for co-development.
Professor Geraint Rees, UCL’s Vice-Provost, emphasized the rarity and value of such long-term academic-industry partnerships. He highlighted the stability the extension brings to deepen scientific research and accelerate translation from lab to market.
Professor Tom Warner, co-chair of the UCL-Eisai Joint Steering Committee, noted that the renewal reflects the maturity of the collaboration and the shared ambition to tackle challenging scientific questions in neurodegenerative disease.
Dr. Katsutoshi Ido, Eisai’s Chief Scientific Officer, praised the depth of neuroscience expertise and the ability to connect early discovery with patient benefit. He emphasized the essential role of UCL’s Translational Research Office in supporting the partnership.
In addition to the partnership extension, Eisai announced a strategic investment at its manufacturing site in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, supported by the UK Government. This investment underscores Eisai’s long-term commitment to strengthening its relationship with the United Kingdom.