A collaborative effort on diabetes research led by scientists from Daiichi Sankyo, the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) and the National Cancer Institute/National Institutes of Health (NCI/NIH) has been published in the prestigious journal Science (Vol. 389, July 24, 2025), marking important recognition for the quality of Daiichi Sankyo’s research.

The study, titled “Molecular Glues That Facilitate RAS Binding to PI3Kα Promote Glucose Uptake Independent of Insulin,” uncovers a unique mechanism of action demonstrated by compounds originated by Daiichi Sankyo. This discovery stems from a novel mechanism identified in a diabetes research program undertaken nearly a decade ago by the Daiichi Sankyo research team, and was further advanced in collaboration with distinguished experts from UCSF and NCI/NIH.

The publication is notable not only for its scientific impact a decade later but also for its authorship: Daiichi Sankyo researchers Koji Terayama, Ph.D., and Shinji Furuzono, Ph.D, are listed as co–first authors, a rare distinction for researchers from the pharmaceutical industry in Science. Jun Tanaka, Ph.D. and Kazuishi Kubota, Ph.D., together with Prof. Frank McCormick from UCSF and Dr. Dhirendra Simanshu from NCI/NIH are co-corresponding authors, representing the research team.

In the same issue, a complementary study by Prof. McCormick and Dr. Simanshu on Ras–PI3K inhibition was also featured, with editorial perspectives highlighting the significance of both papers.

“This achievement is a testament to the enduring scientific value of our work and the strength of Daiichi Sankyo’s science,” said Jun Tanaka, Ph.D. “It showcases our commitment to science and innovation as well as our pursuit of therapies that can transform patient care.”

Daiichi Sankyo would like to extend its heartfelt appreciation to Prof. McCormick and Dr. Simanshu for their invaluable contributions to the research collaboration. Their expertise and dedication have played a crucial role in advancing our scientific understanding and driving our research for diabetes treatments.

The publication serves as a powerful example of Daiichi Sankyo’s research capabilities and is expected to inspire continued efforts toward breakthrough discoveries across the spectrum of the company’s research programs.