GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has continued its efforts to improve worldwide access to the best science and technology platforms, it has been claimed.

Vice-president and head of the company's excellence for external drug discovery division Shelagh Wilson made this comment after it was announced the firm was going to collaborate with Chroma Therapeutics.

Under the terms of the agreement, the latter firm will aim to identify small molecules to help manage disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis as part of a number of discovery and development programmes.

Chroma will receive an up-front sum and be eligible to receive milestones, option fees and tiered royalties based on compounds arising from the partnership.

Ms Wilson noted the company's platform has great potential and commented.

"We ? look forward to working with Chroma to accelerate the discovery and development of innovative new medicines for patients," she said.

Chief executive officer of Chroma Therapeutics Ian Nicholson added the partnership would allow the business to develop a broad pipeline of novel agents against a range of serious diseases.

Earlier this month, GSK announced it had signed an agreement with Dr Reddy's to develop and market a number of products in emerging markets.