Takeda, Astellas, Shimadzu Join To Develop iPS-Based Drugs
This article was originally published in PharmAsia News
Executive Summary
Takeda Pharmaceutical, Astellas Pharma and Shimadzu have signed an agreement with Kyoto University to develop ways to use stem cells created from adult skin in Japan. University investigators have produced pluripotent stem cells from skin. The cells are capable of growing into nerves and muscles, important in advancing regenerative medicine. Under the four-party agreement, the two drug makers are to use medical-equipment maker Shimadzu's laboratory equipment to test their drug compounds for effectiveness and toxicity, with the hope of using the iPS cells to develop new drugs within five years. (Click here for more - a subscription may be required