CDR-USM AND UCT PRAGUE PARTNER TO ADVANCE RESEARCH ON NATURAL PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCES AND ADDICTION

April 29, 2025 | Universiti Sains Malaysia

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through its Centre for Drug Research (CDR), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague (UCT Prague) to collaborate on research involving natural psychoactive substances and addiction science. The agreement, signed on 29 April 2025, aims to strengthen international collaboration in neuropharmacology, with particular focus on Mitragyna speciosa (kratom), cognitive health, and the development of plant-based therapeutics for substance use disorders.

Associate Professor Dr. Zurina Hassan, Deputy Director of CDR, represented USM. She emphasised the significance of combining traditional medicinal knowledge with modern neuroscience to tackle addiction and mental health challenges. The collaboration will include joint research, academic exchanges, and co-authored publications, supported by reciprocal sharing of expertise and bioactive samples. UCT Prague’s efforts are led by Associate Professor Martin Kuchař, an expert in psychoactive compound analysis and addiction treatment research.