HKU and China Merchants Group Forge Partnership in Peptide Drug Innovation
The University of Hong Kong (HKU), the commercial wing represented by Versitech Limited, formalised a significant agreement with China Merchants Group (CMG) on peptide drug innovation and discovery on 27 November 2024.
Attendees included HKU President Prof Xiang Zhang and CMG Chairman Mr Jianmin Miao, highlighting the importance of collaboration in advancing healthcare solutions
Focus of research: Peptide drug innovation
This collaboration marks a pivotal step towards advancing biopharmaceutical research to develop new peptide-based therapies and translate scientific findings into practical medical applications.
The signing ceremony was held at the HKU campus and was attended by prominent figures, including Prof Xiang Zhang, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKU, and Mr Jianmin Miao, Chairman of CMG. Additional attendees included various academic leaders from HKU, such as Prof Max Shen, Vice President and Vice-Chancellor (Research), and Prof Qiang Zhou, Dean of the Faculty of Science.
This partnership positions HKU and CMG as leaders in tackling
pressing healthcare issues through science
The partnership seeks to leverage the combined strengths of HKU and CMG, alongside its subsidiary, the Tianjin Institute of Pharmaceutical Research (TIPR). According to the terms of the agreement, both institutions are committed to enhancing innovation in the biopharmaceutical sector, with the ultimate goal of making substantial advancements in peptide drug research.
During the event, Prof Xuechen Li, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Science at HKU, underscored the importance of collaboration between academia and industry. He noted that such partnerships provide unique opportunities to transform research into tangible solutions for complex medical challenges.
Professor Max Shen highlighted CMG's dedication to innovative research in his closing remarks. He expressed optimism about the future of this partnership, anticipating further cooperation that would enhance research capabilities and promote innovation and entrepreneurship within Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.
Goal: Enhance biopharmaceutical innovation and develop
new peptide-based therapies
This agreement reflects HKU's commitment to cutting-edge research and positions CMG as a critical player in advancing regional biopharmaceutical innovations. The strategic collaboration between HKU's state-key laboratory for synthetic chemistry and TIPR's state-key laboratory further signifies a robust alliance to address pressing healthcare issues through scientific advancements.
As both institutions embark on this collaborative journey, the focus on peptide drug innovation is expected to yield significant benefits in combating complex diseases, ultimately contributing to the broader field of biopharmaceutical research.