The University of Pittsburgh said Monday it is teaming up with biopharmaceutical company Shire, PLC to conduct research that could lead to treatments for rare diseases.
The research team will include students and faculty from the University of Pittsburgh's health sciences programs and research, development and commercialization personnel from Shire.
"We're very excited to enter into a partnership with Shire Pharmaceuticals," University of Pittsburgh Chancellor Patrick Gallagher said. "For decades, Pitt has been a leading research university, and, as we move into our next phase, finding external partnerships with companies like Shire is critical for our future and a priority for Pitt."
The University of Pittsburgh has an impressive track record for health solutions, including the creation of the first safe, effective polio vaccine. The university already is conducting research into possible treatments for cutis laxa, Huntington's disease, demyelinating brain disorders and vascular malformations.
"Shire is committed to enabling people with life-altering conditions to lead better lives," Shire's Head of Research and Development Philip Vickers said. "Collaboration is key to meeting this objective, and partnership with the University of Pittsburgh is an excellent step toward uncovering potential new avenues for treating patients."
Global Genes, a patient advocacy organization, said more than 320 million people around the world are living with - or dying as a result of - rare diseases, which often originate with genetic mutations that can be passed from parent to child. They often cause extreme suffering or early death.
