The University of Edinburgh and Massachusetts-based biotech Biogen Idec have partnered to research multiple sclerosis and motor neurone disease and identify drug compounds for potential treatments. The initiative is funded by Biogen Idec, which develops therapies for neurological disorders and has a portfolio of treatments for patients with multiple sclerosis.

The three-year collaboration will combine the university’s experience in translational medicine, which develops laboratory discoveries into treatments for patients, with Biogen Idec’s experience in drug discovery and development. Clinicians and scientists based at Edinburgh BioQuarter will focus on neuroscience, stem cell research and regeneration.