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  • March 2010 (Revised May 2012)
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Myelin Repair Foundation: Accelerating Drug Discovery Through Collaboration

By: Karim R. Lakhani and Paul R. Carlile
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:19
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Abstract

This case presents the Myelin Repair Foundation's accelerated research collaboration model for drug discovery. It highlights the challenges of building a multi-disciplinary and multi-institutional research collaboration that is attempting to create a treatment for multiple sclerosis based on a novel scientific approach. The case provides details on how norms of academic research and intellectual property had to be updated to enable collaboration. The current dilemma facing the CEO and COO of the foundation relates to setting strategic priorities for research so that a treatment for MS can be ready in the next ten years. The strategic choices need to account for the complexities of drug discovery, the uncertainty of commercial partners' interest in the therapeutic approach and the constrained donor-based fundraising environment.

Keywords

Research and Development; Intellectual Property; Risk and Uncertainty; Strategic Planning; Collaborative Innovation and Invention; Health Disorders; Pharmaceutical Industry; Biotechnology Industry; Health Industry

Citation

Lakhani, Karim R., and Paul R. Carlile. "Myelin Repair Foundation: Accelerating Drug Discovery Through Collaboration." Harvard Business School Case 610-074, March 2010. (Revised May 2012.)
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About The Author

Karim R. Lakhani

Technology and Operations Management
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Related Work

    • March 2010 (Revised May 2012)
    • Faculty Research

    Myelin Repair Foundation: Accelerating Drug Discovery Through Collaboration

    By: Karim R. Lakhani and Paul R. Carlile
Related Work
  • Myelin Repair Foundation: Accelerating Drug Discovery Through Collaboration By: Karim R. Lakhani and Paul R. Carlile
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