Parexel, Osaka International Cancer Institute combine for Japan trial work Parexel, Osaka Internatio

Recently acquired Parexel has joined forces with the Osaka International Cancer Institute to help "drive greater efficiencies" across cancer and blood disease trials in Japan.

The Boston-based CRO, which was bought by Pamplona Capital Management in July for $5 billion and will become a private company again, said in a brief statement that its collaboration with the institute would also boost the "development of innovative and effective new cancer treatments for patients." Any financial terms were not disclosed.

"Oncology continues to be the largest therapeutic area in clinical trials today, and is a priority for Parexel as we partner with clients to deliver new therapies to patients in need," said Shogo Nakamori, corporate VP of clinical research services, Asia Pacific, at the CRO. "Osaka International Cancer Institute is a center of excellence for clinical trials in the Kansai region of Japan. Through this alliance, Parexel and the Osaka International Cancer Institute will work to drive greater efficiencies for local and global biopharmaceutical companies, helping them accelerate the clinical development of innovative and effective new treatments in this difficult disease area."

"The advancement of clinical trials in oncology is imperative in the development of promising new therapies for patients in Japan and around the world," added Nariaki Matsuura, president of Osaka International Cancer Institute. "We are pleased to be working with Parexel, an innovative partner with a large presence in Japan, and globally, with leading clinical and scientific expertise in oncology. Through this collaboration, Osaka International Cancer Institute will gain access to novel treatments sooner, providing a wider range of potential treatment options for our patients and allowing us to make a strong contribution to the further advancement of cancer treatments."

The company first set up shop in Japan back in 1995 and now has more than 1,300 employees based in Tokyo, Kobe and Osaka.

A number of CROs have been looking in recent years to boost their Asian presence, including Chiltern, which back in May acquired Japanese CRO Integrated Development Associates, strengthening its presence in the region.

And in February, PRA Health, which said last year it would be integrating itself into Takeda’s research business, expanded this original pact as the CRO said it would also work with the Big Pharma in its native Japan under a joint venture deal.