Redx Pharma, a technology development resource for the global pharmaceutical market, has entered into a research collaboration with AstraZeneca to discover and develop new molecules targeting a genetic driver of tumour growth and survival.

The research will complement AstraZeneca's strategic approach focused on genetic drivers of cancer and mechanisms of resistance to established and novel cancer therapies.

The research collaboration will involve Redx Pharma scientists working with AstraZeneca's Oncology Innovative Medicines group to accelerate the drug discovery process. Redx Pharma will use its early stage drug discovery capabilities to identify novel leads whose further development will be supported by AstraZeneca's extensive knowledge of the area and strong oncology expertise.

Under the terms of the agreement, Redx Pharma will receive an undisclosed upfront payment. In addition, Redx Pharma is potentially eligible for significant development and commercial milestones, as well as tiered royalties as the programme progresses. AstraZeneca will have the sole rights to further develop and commercialise any programme resulting from the collaboration to add to its portfolio of cancer medicines.

Susan Galbraith, Head of the Oncology Innovative Medicines Unit at AstraZeneca, said: "Collaboration and scientific exchange are at the heart of AstraZeneca's innovation-led strategy. This partnership is based on our own early stage oncology research focused on the genetic drivers of cancer and allows us to build on our combined drug discovery expertise. The co-location of our scientists will facilitate our collaboration."

"This agreement supports our strategic objectives of accelerating discovery and improving the quality and choice of candidate compounds for our early pipeline."

Neil Murray, chief executive of Redx Pharma, said: "We welcome the opportunity to work closely with AstraZeneca — an organisation that has such a strong research focus. This deal represents a significant development for our oncology business — another major transaction and the first time we've had an opportunity to work with the Oncology Innovative Medicines Unit at AstraZeneca. The project is a good fit for both parties and builds on Redx's strong track record in rapidly developing novel drugs in cancer."

Redx Pharma was one of the first tenants at the BioHub at Alderley Park in Cheshire, set up by AstraZeneca in 2013 to allow life sciences companies to benefit from Alderley Park's scientific heritage and state-of-the-art research facilities. As part of the collaboration, AstraZeneca and Redx scientists will work together at Alderley Park, as well as at Redx's Liverpool facility where the project will be based.

Susan Galbraith added: "This collaboration demonstrates the value of the BioHub and the open, collaborative environment that has been created at Alderley Park. It also illustrates AstraZeneca's continued commitment to supporting science in the UK, building on our many existing collaborations with organisations across academia and industry."