Michigan Medicine and MedImmune, the global biologics research and development arm of AstraZeneca (NYSE: AZN), have entered into a three–year research alliance to identify potential new therapies for the prevention and treatment of diabetes, obesity and related metabolic disorders.

The organizations are combining their research expertise to explore how the central nervous system and peripheral tissues rely on each other in these three major disease areas. In addition, researchers will develop and utilize cutting–edge technologies to study genetic models in order to understand and identify targets for the treatment of diabetes and related diseases.

“Creating new avenues for the exchange of innovative ideas and groundbreaking research among scientists from industry and academia is a critical part of drug discovery and development, and our partnership with Michigan Medicine is positioned to be living proof of that,” says Cristina Rondinone, head of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases Innovative Medicines at MedImmune. “As the number of patients suffering from obesity continues to expand at an alarming rate, the need to identify new therapies is more important than ever. In working collaboratively with Michigan Medicine’s world–renowned metabolic scientists, we are creating an excellent team of researchers with potentially transformative implications for patients.”

Michigan Medicine experts in metabolism, gastroenterology and neuroendocrinology will collaborate with MedImmune on projects in the biotech’s existing Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases research portfolio.

“Every day, we’re making new connections between University of Michigan researchers and potential industry partners, facilitated by our Fast Forward Medical Innovation team,” notes Stephen Kunkel, PhD, senior associate dean for research at the University of Michigan Medical School. “With the ultimate goal of having a positive impact on patients, this collaboration with MedImmune is an opportunity for our researchers from multiple disciplines to work with a company whose strategies align with our deep strengths in diabetes and metabolic diseases.”