Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, LLC, (J&JPRD), a part of Johnson & Johnson, the world's most broadly based producer of healthcare products, has launched its late-phase new chemical entity (NCE) Analytical & Pharmaceutical Development Centre (APDC) at Mulund in Mumbai.

The APDC is the first of its kind in India and it will play a key role in addressing major global healthcare challenges, many of which also address key issues facing India and the region. Currently, there are 150 scientists undertaking research activities and another 150 will be added shortly. The total investment will worked out to over nine million US dollar.

APDC will help develop a potential new treatment for tuberculosis, a late-stage HIV compound and a number of products designed to treat multi-drug-resistant bacteria. J&JPRD has three research and development clusters globally in US, Europe and China. It is using a networked, open innovation model through which works collaboratively with universities, research institutes and companies.

Paul Stoffels, Global head, Pharmaceutical R&D, said, "India's deep pool of top scientific talent was a key factor in making this investment decision. As a global company, we look at attracting the best researchers from around the world, wherever they exist - it is an important competitive factor for us. India's young and highly educated workforce will serve us very well in the future."

Robert J Sheroff, president Global Pharmaceutical Supply Group, LLC, of Johnson & Johnson, said, "The APDC will provide a world-class environment for research scientists, and will be its hub for analytical and pharmaceutical formulation development processes, increasing the company's overall capacity to discover and develop new pharmaceuticals. These processes play an important role in the introduction of new medicines for the global marketplace, since they ensure the quality of the new compounds."

Johan Van Hoof, COO, said, "J&JPRD's strategy is to develop the best medical solutions for patients through an open innovation model combining the company's most innovative ideas, technology and talent, with the expertise, capabilities, and talent of academic, biotech and licensing partners. In Asia, we have plans to invest in open innovation through more research partnerships and collaborative efforts."

Last week, Johnson & Johnson officially announced its Asia R&D headquarters in Shanghai. That, combined with this new facility, creates a critical mass capability in the region, allowing an end-to-end approach to drug development.