Africa: Partners Commit To Bolster Open Source Research

The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), UK, Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) and MMV have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate in an effort to build a global community of researchers contributing to open source drug discovery for diseases of poverty.

This move is aligned with the product development partnership model (PDP) that draws on the strengths and scientific networks of partners to design new medical tools for neglected diseases.

The RSC is committed to advancing chemistry research for the benefit of society. Supported by a worldwide network of chemists and an international publishing business, RSC's activities span education, conferences, science policy and the promotion of chemistry to the public.

DNDi is a product development partnership (PDP) dedicated to improving the quality of life and health of people suffering from neglected diseases, by developing new drugs and ensuring their equitable access.

MMV is a leading PDP in the field of antimalarial drug research and development. Its mission is to reduce the burden of malaria in disease-endemic countries by discovering, developing and facilitating delivery of new, effective and affordable antimalarial medicines.

Together, the three organisations have committed to build new networks and links between experts and open source project leaders to drive drug discovery forward.

Specifically, the organisations will share expertise, organise workshops, and develop online platforms and tools to make it easier for scientists around the world to collaborate and get involved.

"Open source research is all about sharing expertise and pooling resources for a common goal," said Jeremy Burrows, Head of Discovery at MMV.

"It therefore seemed only logical that MMV, DNDi and RSC should collaborate to bolster these initiatives geared towards a shared objective: to discover novel series that tackle diseases of poverty. The key now is to help get the word out and encourage as many scientists as possible to come forward and contribute."