Collecting and combining data on existing compounds scattered throughout Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) was the challenge facing its global research indications discovery unit. Its goal was to find additional applications for the compounds.
The unit built an information tool that gave researchers access to Pfizer's data assets, according to BioWorld Today. It also built collaboration tools, allowing access to members of the NIH-funded Clinical and Translational Science Awards consortium. The consortium had generated ideas about repurposing old compounds.
The effort has speeded development, with researchers moving five compounds to the clinic over the course of three years. It might even be faster, but for the time required for negotiating agreements on shared intellectual property and licensing.
- here's the article