The University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) and Bayer have collaborated to advance research for heart, lung and blood disease indications.

The partnership spans from early research studies to drug development and big data analysis, including real-world evidence studies.

Bayer will also support an independent investigator-initiated clinical trial in sickle-cell disease.

University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine chair of the department of medicine Mark Gladwin said: "The alliance builds upon a productive history of research collaboration between the scientists at Pitt and Bayer.

"Working with Bayer under this master agreement will allow us to further explore drug discovery research to better understand and meet patient needs."

The collaboration will be managed by a committee comprising leaders from Bayer and the university.

It will also manage and make ongoing decisions to govern the joint research activities.

Bayer senior vice-president and head of medical affairs Dario Mirski said: "Bayer is proud to partner with the University of Pittsburgh, bringing together their renowned scientists in partnership with Bayer's clinical disease experts and in-depth expertise in delivering new therapies to patients.

"Our goal is to advance meaningful research around pathophysiology and discovery, working closely with Pitt to evaluate new therapeutic principles for heart, lung and blood diseases."

The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine integrates new technology with basic science across various disciplines to harness the power of new knowledge.