Medimmune announces research deals with University of Cambridge and University of Texas

USA-based MedImmune, the global biologics research and development arm of Anglo-Swedish drug major AstraZeneca (LSE: AZN), and the University of Cambridge in the UK have entered into a three-year oncology research collaboration to use using imaging technologies to measure key biologic changes within growing tumors.

MedImmune will contribute both funding and a post-doctoral scientist to work within the laboratory of Professor Kevin Brindle at the university in the area of tumor targeted therapies (TTTs), a key strategic approach within MedImmune’s oncology portfolio. TTTs encompass antibodies that are ‘armed’ to kill tumor cells, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) that selectively aim powerful drugs at cancer cells. The university is developing novel clinically relevant approaches using magnetic resonance-based molecular imagingto detect the earliest signs of a tumor’s response to treatment, including cell death. These technologies may help MedImmune identify effective therapies earlier in the development process, allowing for more rapid delivery of drugs to patients.

Yong-Jun Liu, who was appointed head of research at MedImmune in January, said: “MedImmune is committed to collaborative partnerships with academia that drive the discovery and application of novel technology to enhance oncology research and development. We’re delighted to embark on this partnership with the University of Cambridge and partner with Professor Brindle in this important area of oncology research.”