Galapagos unit in CNS discovery deal with Ono Pharma

Belgian biotech firm Galapagos NV (Euronext: GLPG) says that its service division BioFocus and Japanese drugmaker Ono Pharmaceutical (TYO: 4528) have signed a new collaboration agreement, focused on discovering novel drugs in the field of CNS disorders.

Under the new accord, financial details of which were not disclosed, BioFocus will use its drug discovery platform to deliver leads and clinical candidates for its client.

"We are delighted to have this new agreement, which is the first drug discovery program with this, a most valued, client," said Chris Newton, senior vice president at Galapagos Services and managing director of BioFocus, adding: "This project plays to BioFocus historic strengths and the expanding breadth and depth of this partnership is testament to a tried and trusted relationship."