UK biotech Heptares Therapeutics has entered into 4-year research collaboration with AstraZeneca to leverage its GPCR (G-protein coupled receptor) expertise and proprietary StaR® technology with the aim of building a pipeline of GPCR-targeted drugs for CNS/pain, cardiovascular/metabolic and inflammatory disorders based on projects from AstraZeneca’s small and large molecule portfolio, including from its MedImmune biologics unit. AstraZeneca will gain global commercial rights to product candidates emerging from the collaboration.