Evotec AG has entered a three-year collaboration agreement with UCB to provide in vitro pharmacology services to support UCB's drug discovery projects across multiple target classes, particularly in the CNS space. Key activities will include assay development, compound profiling and mechanistic studies, and will provide UCB with access to Evotec’s expertise in in vitro pharmacology and electrophysiology. Financial details were not disclosed.

Dr. Mario Polywka, chief operating officer of Evotec, said, "Through this significant collaboration focusing on CNS pharmacology, we continue to strengthen our relationship with UCB, a strategic partner of Evotec. With both teams already working closely together, we look forward to adding value to UCB's drug discovery programs."

Dr. Neil Weir, senior vice president of Discovery at UCB, added, "Evotec has demonstrated its scientific excellence and as such is a key partner supporting our drug discovery efforts. We welcome the addition of CNS pharmacology, where Evotec has specific expertise, to the range of activities we collaborate on."