Syndicate Bioa biotechnology platform driving genomics and precision medicine initiatives in the world’s most genetically diverse regions, today announced the signing of a key Memorandum of Understanding [MoU] with Nigeria’s premier government research institution, the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research [NIMR].
This landmark collaboration sets the stage for transformative genomic studies in infectious and non-infectious diseases, with the goal of deepening the understanding of diseases prevalent in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, while identifying targets for drug discovery.
Details
Released in 2023 by Founder Dr Abasi Ene-Obong, next to the co-founders Dr. Jumi Popoola and Estelle DogboSyndicate Bio is quickly establishing itself as a critical player in the field of genomics research.
Following its recent launch, the company aims to forge large-scale partnerships with governments, pharmaceutical giants, research and academic institutions and other stakeholders.
Using genomic technologies, these collaborations will drive change in the local healthcare landscape through precision medicine, while generating invaluable data sets vital to advancing drug discovery and development efforts. In line with its commitment to advance healthcare through innovation, Syndicate Bio will leverage NIMR’s infectious and non-infectious disease capabilities, which include state-of-the-art laboratories and patient clinics, both at NIMR’s facilities and networks their partners.
Digging deeper
This collaboration marks a rarity in Africa where a private and a government-run public agency work together intensively on drug discovery. Established by an Act of Parliament in 1977, NIMR has pioneered many studies as well as secured varying levels of local and international grants, firmly establishing itself as the bedrock of medical research in Nigeria. NIMR’s central role extends to developing sustainable structures for the dissemination of research findings and providing an enabling environment for health research and education in collaboration with federal and state ministries, universities, as well as national and international partners such as the Syndicate Bio.
In an important move that supports the ethical and national interest, NIMR will provide strong ethical oversight through its internal ethics body and the National Health Research Ethics Committee [NHREC] in the management of data and samples generated by research projects.
What they say
Speaking of collaboration, Dr Abasi Ene-ObongFounder and CEO of Syndicate Bio, said:After several months of operating in stealth mode, today marks a pivotal moment for Syndicate Bio. The signed MoU with the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research enables us to move from stealth to actionable impact, fostering comprehensive advances in African genomics. This collaboration not only validates Syndicate Bio’s strategy of creating ethical and transformative alliances, but also lays the groundwork for a future where precision medicine is accessible to everyone, everywhere.”
Professor Babatunde Lawal SalakoDirector General and CEO of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, added:NIMR’s collaboration with the newly formed Syndicate Bio is a testament to what can be achieved when public research institutions and private innovation work together. NIMR hopes to bring its rich, robust genomics experience and infrastructure to meet the successful implementation of this much-needed collaborative effort. Together, we will harness Nigeria’s genetic diversity and translate it into innovative healthcare solutions tailored to both the local population and the global community.”
Seeking to go beyond pioneering research, Syndicate Bio and NIMR are taking active steps to strengthen Africa’s scientific future. With this collaboration, both organizations will launch targeted capacity building initiatives focused on nurturing emerging scientists in Nigeria to equip them with advanced skills in genomics and molecular science. In this way, the collaboration fosters the next generation of scientists for success in a globally competitive field.
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