Procter & Gamble forges bioscience research agreement

ISB has developed a reputation for its research work into applications of systems of biology. This work has mainly been concentrated on the prediction and prevention of major human diseases.

The new partnership will tap into ISB’s systems approach, which integrates biology, together with computational and technological capabilities to analyze all aspects of a biological system, rather than specific aspects such as genes or proteins.

P&G is also hoping to take advantage of ISB’s expertise in regulatory issues, while imparting its own credentials in skin biology and dermatology as part of the partnership agreement.

Global molecular changes in skin​

Ultimately the project aims to develop models of the global molecular changes that occur in skin under different conditions that are associated with the aging process.

Secondary to the research into the skin aging process will be research into respiratory rhinovirus infection.

“Along with supporting our skin care business, this collaboration will enhance our expanding core systems biology,“​ said Al Maingot, VP of research and development at P&G.

Expansion of Olay brand​

In September last year P&G said it wanted to introduce its core anti-aging skin care brand Olay into 15 new markets worldwide during the remaining months of 2010 and in to 2011.

Speaking at the Barclays Capital Back to School conference in Chicago, P&G’s vice chairman of global beauty and grooming brands Ed Shirley stated that the objective to grow the Olay brand would form a key part of its global growth strategy in the future.

Shirley stated that the emphasis for the brand this year would be new markets, and underlined Brazil, currently one of the fastest growing retail markets in the world, as a key focus for the push.

In fiscal 2009, P&G estimated that the Olay brand accounted for approximately $2.8bn of the group’s total $79bn revenues. It is currently the leading skin care brand in a number of the biggest global markets, including China, the UK and the US.