Bayer AG has entered into research and development (R&D) collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh in the areas of heart, lung and blood diseases. The partnership will cover early research studies, drug development and data analysis including real-world evidence studies. Bayer announced that it would also support an independent clinical trial in sickle cell disease, a disorder characterised by a low number of red blood cells, repeated infections and pain. The alliance builds upon a productive history of research collaboration between the two partners, Mark Gladwin, Doctor of Medicine at the university.