- Privileged access to highly characterized and cutting-edge pharmacology molecules
- Direct support from experienced Boehringer Ingelheim drug discovery scientists
- Initial enabling funding might be available with the potential for follow-on collaborations
- Possibility of publishing novel connections of biological mechanisms to human disease using unique reagents
FAQs
What are the benefits of a successful collaboration proposal for me?
How are the molecules requested?
We release these compounds for specific projects to test novel therapeutic hypotheses. The proposals are evaluated by Boehringer Ingelheim scientists and the selected ideas are normally pursued through a joint collaboration. The initial proposal must not contain any confidential data. Further, it should be short (2-3 pages) and address the following areas to allow rapid evaluation of your ideas:
- Overview of the proposal originator and the organization(s) it represents
- Medical need
- Scientific rationale, supported by key references
- Target-to-disease link
- Therapeutic hypothesis to be tested
- Test systems available and information on their suitability
- Key decision-making data to support project progression
- Projected timelines to decision points
- A graphical representation of the experimental plan
- Information on potential conflicting intellectual property rights of third parties and freedom to operate
- Initial funding request
We have provided a template to help you to compile the information required.
What if I have confidential information that I would like to include to strengthen my proposal?
If confidential data exists that would strengthen the proposal, you may indicate that confidential information is available to share under a Confidential Disclosure Agreement (CDA). If we find the non-confidential concept proposal sufficiently interesting, we will execute a CDA for confidential discussions.
Is funding available to support preclinical proof-of-concept studies with these molecules?
Funding is potentially available to kick-start projects. Research proposals are evaluated by Boehringer Ingelheim scientists for strategic fit and are considered for funding on a competitive basis.
What is the timeframe for proposal review?
Boehringer Ingelheim scientists with relevant expertise will make an initial evaluation of your collaboration proposal within 4 weeks. Should there be mutual interest in proceeding with the compound request, you will usually be contacted by a Boehringer Ingelheim scientist to discuss the research plan in more detail and to understand how we can best support your idea. The timeframe for collaboration start will be different for each collaboration.
Are there any direct costs for molecule supply?
No. Boehringer Ingelheim covers all compound, shipping and import costs associated with the provision of these research compounds.
How much molecule can I order?
Sufficient compound will be provided to test the new therapeutic concept as outlined in the agreed upon research plan.
Will other applicants be able to see my collaboration proposal?
No. Applications will be shared inside Boehringer Ingelheim amongst a team of scientists designated to evaluate proposals for potential funding. They will not be visible to, or shared with, scientists from other institutions.
Do I need to share the compound associated data with Boehringer Ingelheim?
The terms and conditions for data sharing will be specified in the individual collaboration agreements.
Who owns any potential IP arising from novel experimental observations?
The IP rights will be pre-negotiated as part of the contracting arrangements between Boehringer Ingelheim and your institution.
Are the pharmacological profile and structure of these molecules available?
These molecules are released with a comprehensive data package describing potency on designated target, selectivity information versus other targets, and pharmacokinetic characterization. In the first instance, the structures of our Molecules for collaboration are not released. This allows us to make unique compounds from ongoing projects available to the community much earlier than has previously been possible.
Are the molecules suitable for in vivo proof-of-concept studies?
These tool compounds highly characterized with respect to potency, selectivity and pharmacokinetics. They are suitable for in vivo preclinical studies and guidelines are available to advise on species previously tested, dose selection, dose regimen, and formulation.
Have the molecules available for collaborations completed a preclinical safety assessment?
No. We aim to make unique tool compounds available at a very early stage while the biology is evolving; hence, the compounds will not have been subject to a comprehensive safety evaluation. They are provided as experimental tools for in vitro and in vivo studies and should be treated appropriately according to the practices within your institute.