Pfizer is planning to invest $600 million in biotechnology and other emerging growth companies through its venture investment group. Initial areas of interest include neuro-degeneration, neuro-inflammation and neuro-metabolic disorders, and other areas where rapidly advancing science could lead to breakthroughs for patients.

Pfizer Ventures will dedicate 25% of the funds to neuroscience, seeking out promising early-stage neuroscience companies to support a broad array of early research and product development opportunities.

“By changing the way we invest in neuroscience, we hope to support an energised community of biotech entrepreneurs who are progressing the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of neurologic diseases and help advance potential treatments for people with neurological conditions,” said Denis Patrick, vice president, Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, and managing partner of Pfizer Ventures.

Beyond neuroscience, Pfizer Ventures will continue to invest across a range of therapeutic areas of interest , such as oncology, inflammation and immunology, rare disease, internal medicine and vaccines.