We delve into the most compelling collaborations in the pharmaceutical industry that have taken place in recent months, particularly those that have featured non-traditional healthcare players – a theme becoming more commonplace as pharma pushes for more patient-informed strategies. There is a particular emphasis on partnerships that explore disease detection, technology, and the arts.
GILEAD AND ELTON JOHN AIDS FOUNDATION LAUNCH
Gilead have partnered with the Elton John AIDS Foundation to meaningfully combat new HIV infections and death from AIDS-related illnesses in parts of Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA). The RADIAN initiative builds on their already existing collaboration in the EECA Key Populations fund and aims to provide support and funding in the hopes of reversing damaging trends and reaching the most vulnerable people disproportionately affected by HIV.
PFIZER AND BMS RUN WITH FITBIT
BMS and Pfizer have announced a partnership with Fitbit with the mission of improving early detection of individuals with an increased risk of stroke. Plans are in place to collaborate on the development of educational content and guidance to support those at increased risk of atrial fibrillation as the alliance seeks FDA approval.
NOVARTIS AND MICROSOFT AI COLLABORATION
Novartis and Microsoft have committed to a multi-year R&D effort focussing on artificial intelligence empowerment and exploration to address some of the most difficult computational challenges within the life sciences industry. The aim is to strengthen Novartis’ AI capabilities, from research through to commercialisation, to propel the discovery
and development of transformative medicines across the world.
BIOMARIN LOOK TO THE ARTS
BioMarin are currently in the process of developing a haemophilia gene therapy and have embraced the therapeutic value of the arts. BioMarin have teamed up with non-profit group ‘The Moth’ for the off-Broadway show ‘Hemophilia: The Musical’, in which patients collaborated to accurately inform and represent the patient experience. The company are also sponsoring the podcast series ‘BloodStream Journeys’, which features people living with blood disorders telling their stories.