Extra amino acid could work wonders Rice U. chemist uses designer amino acids in search for new cures
HOUSTON – (Sept. 27, 2019) – There are 20 amino acids in the standard genetic code. A Rice University professor wants to know what one can do with 21.
Rice chemist Han Xiao has landed a $1.8 million National Institutes of Health grant to learn how a custom-designed 21st amino acid could be employed to make life-saving substances — and how to get genetically programmed cells to make them.
Xiao won a renewable R35 grant, issued through the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. The five-year grant will help enable the design of “unnatural organisms,” cells customized to produce a library of 100 or more designer amino acids that could in turn produce novel proteins for therapies.
“It’s an old question: Why do we have 20 amino acids?” said Xiao, Rice’s Norman Hackerman-Welch Young Investigator and an assistant professor of chemistry, who joined Rice in 2017 with funding from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT). “Why don’t we have 21? And if we have a 21st amino acid, can we evolve a protein with some new function?
Xiao said it will be challenging to engineer bacteria with DNA that encodes a "noncanonical," or custom-made amino acid.
“We would need several steps,” he said. “No. 1, we need to have a cell that can make this non-canonical amino acid. No. 2, we need a special codon for this new building block. And No. 3, we need a whole new translational mechanism to incorporate this building block.
“People have done a really good job for No. 2 and 3, but we’re still missing the first part, the cell,” Xiao said. “If we can couple them, we can create a totally unnatural organism to make a noncanonical amino acid and use it for the translational target. My lab wants to put these puzzle pieces together.”
If he succeeds, bioscientists will have a new tool to make custom proteins that can treat disease.
“I think there are a lot of applications,” Xiao said. “For example, you can make switchable chimeric antigen receptor (CAR-T) cells for immunotherapy, or you can make antibody drug conjugates. Along with addressing fundamental evolutionary questions, these would have a big impact on the pharmaceutical industry.
“It’s pretty challenging to make something this complicated, but I think we have a good platform and a good team,” he said.
Health Canada approves Dupixent™ as the first biologic for the treatment of adolescents with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis
Dupixent™ can significantly reduce the constant itch and improve the skin's overall condition1
TORONTO, Sept. 27, 2019 /CNW/ - Health Canada has approved Dupixent™ (dupilumab) for the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in adolescent patients aged 12 years and older whose disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies or when those therapies are not advisable.2 Treatment with Dupixent™, the first targeted therapy for moderate-to-severe AD, demonstrated a significant improvement in the signs and symptoms of the condition and certain quality of life measures in adolescent patients.3
Dupixent™ was first approved by Health Canada on November 30, 2017 for the treatment of adult patients with moderate-to-severe AD.4
"Dupixent™ has been used safely and effectively to treat thousands of adults living with atopic dermatitis, here in Canada and other countries," says Dr. Perla Lansang, Dermatologist, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. "It's so important that this treatment option is now available to help adolescents who suffer from this life-altering disease."
The adolescent indication for Dupixent™ is based on the findings from a pivotal Phase 3 trial presented at the 27th European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress in Paris, France in 2018.
Atopic dermatitis, the most common form of eczema, is a chronic inflammatory disease.5 In its moderate-to-severe form, it is characterized by rashes that can potentially cover much of the body, and can include intense, persistent itching, skin lesions and skin dryness, cracking redness, crusting and oozing.6 Inadequately controlled atopic dermatitis can have a physical, emotional and psychosocial impact, causing sleep disturbance, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and feelings of isolation.7
"Atopic dermatitis has no cure. Patients living with this disease are in desperate need of effective medications today," says Marissa Poole, General Manager, Sanofi Genzyme Canada. "Dupixent™ is a novel treatment that can help reduce the severe itching associated with atopic dermatitis, effectively clear skin and improve quality of life for adolescent patients. This treatment offers hope for a better life for patients living with this condition."
About Dupixent™
Dupixent™ (dupilumab) – the first biologic therapy in Canada to target the root cause of atopic dermatitis (AD) was first approved by Health Canada on November 30, 2017 for the treatment of adult patients with moderate-to-severe AD whose disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies or when those therapies are not advisable.8 Clinical studies showed an acceptable safety profile with a significant improvement in the condition of patients' skin and reduction in itch within the first four months of biweekly treatment.9 The long-term safety profile of Dupixent™ observed in adolescents was consistent with that seen in adults with atopic dermatitis.10 The medicine is jointly developed by Regeneron and Sanofi under a global collaboration agreement.
Dupixent™ showed positive results in the pivotal Phase 3 trial presented at the 27th European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV)
The findings from the Phase 3 trial showed the potential of Dupixent™ to significantly improve the constant itch and certain quality of life measures in adolescents aged 12 years and older whose AD is inadequately controlled with topical therapies or for whom topical treatment was medically inadvisable. The data was presented at the 27th European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress in Paris, France.
This late-breaking presentation at EADV indicated the co-primary endpoint outside of the U.S. had a 75 per cent improvement in the Ezcema Area and Severity Index (EASI-75), and included the following significant improvements:11
41.5 per cent of patients who received Dupixent™ every two weeks and 38 per cent of patients who received Dupixent™ every four weeks achieved 75 per cent or greater improvement (EASI-75) compared to 8 per cent with placebo (p less than 0.001).12
24 per cent of patients who received weight-based dosing of Dupixent™ every two weeks (200 mg or 300 mg) and 18 per cent of patients who received a fixed dose of Dupixent™ every four weeks (300 mg) achieved the primary endpoint – clear or almost-clear skin (IGA; score of 0 or 1) – compared with 2 per cent with placebo (p less than 0.001).13
About Sanofi, Canada
Sanofi, Canada employs more than 2,000 people. In 2017, we invested in $123 million in R&D in Canada, creating jobs, business and opportunities throughout the country.
Sanofi is dedicated to supporting people through their health challenges. We are a global biopharmaceutical company focused on human health. We prevent illness with vaccines, provide innovative treatments to fight pain and ease suffering. We stand by the few who suffer from rare diseases and the millions with long-term chronic conditions.
With more than 100,000 people in 100 countries, Sanofi is transforming scientific innovation into healthcare solutions around the globe.
BREAKING GLASS PICTURES ANNOUNCES THE US RELEASE OF ECO-TERRORIST: THE BATTLE FOR OUR PLANET ACROSS THE US STARTING OCTOBER 1, 2019
Breaking Glass Pictures brings Peter Jay Brown’s follow-up to the multiple-award-winning, behind-the-scenes feature-documentary on Captain Paul, Whale Wars and the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society and dives into the depths of environmental movement to audiences across the US on October 1, 2019“A freedom fighter”Bill Maher“So rascally in tone you might expect "yo-ho-ho's" and festive eye-patches." Dennis Harvey, Variety"Eco-Terrorist takes Whale Wars Up a Notch"WiredClick here to view the trailer LOS ANGELES/NEW YORK (September 26, 2019) — Breaking Glass Pictures is thrilled to announce the US release of director and producer Peter Jay Brown’s (Entertainment Tonight, Real People, Confessions of an Eco-Terrorist) latest no-holds-barred environmental feature documentary, Eco-Terrorist: The Battle for Our Planet on October 1, 2019. “Breaking Glass Pictures is excited to be distributing Eco-terrorist: The Battle for Our Planet to help spread the word about the dire situation in which we find our planet. There is no reason, in 2019, to hunt such beautiful and intelligent mammals and to impose any further damage on the earth’s eco-system that is already hanging in the balance. It’s time for everyone to do their part.” Said Rich Wolff, CEO of Breaking Glass Pictures.Eco-Terrorist: The Battle for Our Planet follows the most wanted environmentalist today, Captain Paul Watson. In this unique and groundbreaking film, Brown takes a deeper look into what really goes on behind the scenes in the deep waters of our world. After 40 years on the frontlines, Brown exposes more pranks, the glory of successful missions, and fierce encounters with some of the most infamous and illegal marine hunters, while stopping at nothing to protect wildlife on a global scale. The film takes the audience right to the frontlines of the modern day environmental movement via those who started it. According to Brown, “My films and television shows on the environment were all about how we started a revolution on a shoestring of tactics and often deceit. Eco-Terrorist: The Battle for Our Planet shows how the struggle has been eclipsed by eco-corporations and money that have overshadowed the efforts of the true activists. Saving the planet involves each and every one of us. This why I have returned to grass roots activism, and am beyond thrilled that audiences will now have a chance to join the good fight and get a first-hand glimpse into the belly of the beast of the eco-movement.” Filmmaker and longest-serving Sea Shepherd Conservation Society (SSCS) crewmember, first mate to Captain Paul Watson and a captain in his own right, Peter Jay Brown reunites his ruthless cast in this Post Whale-Wars feature documentary that captures all sides of the SSCS from its inception to this very day. Included is even more never-before-seen footage of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society campaigns featuring renegade environmentalists and their guerilla tactics. Sneaking about, trouble-making, and at times humorous tricks play a role in trying to put an end to the brutal slaughter of these helpless animals. Eco-Terrorist: The Battle for Our Planet will be available for audiences across the US starting October 1, 2019 on iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, Google Play, Vudu, FandangoNOW, DirectTV and Dish Network/Dish Signal, and through local cable & satellite providers. The film will also be available on DVD at fine distributors everywhere. Film credits include: Director/producer Peter Jay Brown, producer Elora West, writer Timothy Wade Huntley and executive producers Lon Haber and Lawrence Mortoff with music composed by Drew Schnurr.
Spectrum Therapeutics Announces Donation to Support Research and Education Initiatives Led by the Canadian Sleep and Circadian Network
SMITHS FALLS, ON and MONTREAL, Sept. 26, 2019 /CNW/ - Spectrum Therapeutics ("Spectrum"), the medical division of Canopy Growth Corporation (TSX: WEED) (NYSE: CGC) is pleased to announce a donation to the Fondation de l'Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montreal (Montreal Sacre Coeur Hospital Foundation) to support the Canadian Sleep and Circadian Network's ("CSCN") associated national campaign: Sleep On It which aims to raise awareness about the importance of good quality sleep on health.
Spectrum's donation to the campaign has been made, based on CSCN's request to support their initiative to organize the sleep scientific community around the question of cannabis use for sleep disorders. Although an increasing volume of anecdotal data indicates the growing usage of cannabis from individuals coping with sleep disorders, clinical scientific evidence on its effectiveness is still limited. Hence, via this donation, CSCN will be able to provide to the public, health management decision makers as well as the sleep scientific community, a review of currently available data and identify the research gaps that need to be filled. This review is expected to be completed during the second half of the 2020 calendar year.
By partnering with the leader in the cannabis industry, CSCN's objective is to combine the expertise of clinicians, physicians and researchers across the country to facilitate and scientifically support the development of a white paper based on a comprehensive review of all existing literature and facts about the use of cannabis in sleep disorder management. The report is also expected to be published during the second half of the 2020 calendar year and will introduce an updated clinical research program looking at all areas that impact quality of sleep, including pain, aging, and sleep disorders such as insomnia. Ultimately, the white paper will provide insights and guidance on future research directions and further requirements for evidence on the potential application of medical cannabis in treating sleep disorders.
"Good quality sleep is far more important to our long-term health than most people realize," commented Dr. Mark Ware, Chief Medical Officer, Canopy Growth. "We're just now beginning to explore the role cannabis can play in addressing sleep-related disorders. Patient feedback is very promising so far, and partnerships such as these will advance our understanding of the intriguing phenomenon of sleep that is so essential to our overall well-being."
"The legalization of cannabis in Canada has brought about a natural interest in the potential for cannabis in the treatment of sleeping disorders. We need to catalyze the development of collective efforts to further develop scientific knowledge platforms to inform policy, therapeutic practice, and prevention efforts about sleep and cannabis and to scientifically inform decision makers as well as general public about the research needs to produce evidence based data on sleep and cannabis," commented Dr Julie Carrier, Scientific director of the Canadian Sleep & Circadian Network and sleep researcher at the CIUSSS du Nord-de-l'Île-de-Montreal.
One in three Canadians don't get the recommended seven hours of sleep each night. The CSCN's mission is to mobilize the healthcare community to adopt an integrated approach towards improving outcomes and treatment of patients with sleep disorders.
Here's to Future Growth (and better sleep!)
About Canadian Sleep and Circadian Network The Canadian Sleep and Circadian Network (CSCN) is national in scope and is committed to scientific excellence in the generation of new knowledge and its translation. We look to better understand sleep disruption and its impact so we can foster healthier sleep and healthier Canadians.
About Spectrum Therapeutics Spectrum Therapeutics, the medical division of Canopy Growth Corporation (TSX: WEED, NYSE: CGC), is dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners, furthering the public's understanding of medical cannabis and its various applications, and cutting edge, commercializable research and IP development. Founded in Canada, Spectrum Therapeutics operates in Australia, South America, Africa and across Europe. Its products are available in a wide range of potencies and formats designed to simplify the dialogue around strength and dosage by applying a colour-coded spectrum to categorize medical cannabis according to THC and CBD levels.
Spectrum Therapeutics' offerings include whole flower cannabis, oils and new innovations such as Softgels in addition to single cannabinoid medicine Dronabinol under the brand Bionorica Ethics. Through product simplification, robust clinical research and ongoing education of healthcare professionals, Spectrum Therapeutics is committed to addressing the unmet medical needs of patients around the globe.
About Canopy Growth Corporation Canopy Growth (TSX:WEED, NYSE:CGC) is a world-leading diversified cannabis, hemp and cannabis device company, offering distinct brands and curated cannabis varieties in dried, oil and Softgel capsule forms, as well as medical devices through the Company's subsidiary, Storz & Bickel GMbH & Co. KG. From product and process innovation to market execution, Canopy Growth is driven by a passion for leadership and a commitment to building a world-class cannabis company one product, site and country at a time. The Company has operations in over a dozen countries across five continents. The Company's medical division, Spectrum Therapeutics is proudly dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners, conducting robust clinical research, and furthering the public's understanding of cannabis, and has devoted millions of dollars toward cutting edge, commercializable research and IP development. Spectrum Therapeutics sells a range of full-spectrum products using its colour-coded classification Spectrum system as well as single cannabinoid Dronabinol under the brand Bionorica Ethics. The Company operates retail stores across Canada under its award-winning Tweed and Tokyo Smoke banners. Tweed is a globally recognized cannabis brand which has built a large and loyal following by focusing on quality products and meaningful customer relationships. From our historic public listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange to our continued international expansion, pride in advancing shareholder value through leadership is engrained in all we do at Canopy Growth. Canopy Growth has established partnerships with leading sector names including cannabis icons Snoop Dogg and Seth Rogen, breeding legends DNA Genetics and Green House Seeds, and Fortune 500 alcohol leader Constellation Brands, to name but a few. Canopy Growth operates eleven licensed cannabis production sites with over 4.7 million square feet of production capacity, including over one million square feet of GMP certified production space. For more information visit www.canopygrowth.com
Notice Regarding Forward Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Canopy Growth or its subsidiaries to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release. Examples of such statements include "aims to raise awareness about the importance of good quality sleep on health", and "development of a white paper based on a comprehensive review of all existing literature and facts" . Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including results of the research review and such risks contained in the Company's annual information form dated June 24, 2019 and filed with Canadian securities regulators available on the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information or forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking information or forward-looking information to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities laws.
SOURCE Spectrum Therapeutics
StrainprintR Technologies Ltd. Launches the First Medical Cannabis Industry Report Based on the Largest Real-World Observational Patient Study
Technology Leader Releases Groundbreaking Research Report Providing Unique Insight From Over 800,000 Real-Time Canadian Medical Cannabis Patient Outcomes
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TORONTO (Sept. 26, 2019) - StrainprintR Technologies Ltd. (Strainprint), the leader in cannabis data and analytics, is proud to announce the release of The Canadian Medical Cannabis Experience: A 2019 Patient Retrospective (the “Report”), the latest Strainprint research publication designed to support the entire cannabis industry with meaningful insights based on the technology leader’s unique and broad-based patient-led data. The Report features thorough analysis of more than 800,000 real-time anonymous patient outcomes reported during the period from January to December 2018.
“We hear time and time again about the need for comprehensive resources like our Patient Retrospective Report,” said Strainprint President, Dave Berg. “Medical cannabis hasn’t had decades of clinical trials to form guidelines on dosing, onset and efficiency and with over 450 chemical constituents in every strain, it is not like studying single molecules in traditional pharma. So, real-world patient data is invaluable for medical professionals and industry stakeholders looking to make informed choices for their patients and businesses.”
Strainprint aggregates anonymous patient-reported data from its award-winningmobile journaling App and through surveys and validated questionnaires from its online Strainprint Community. Strainprint has been collecting this unique and proprietary data since 2016 and it grows more granular by the day. Today, it is the largest data set of its kind in the world with more than 1.4 million sessions and 70 million data points on strain efficacy. It is the only cannabis consumption data tracked in real time against more than 1,600 lab-verified products by batch.
“Tracking symptomatic improvement against chemical profile (ingredients) by batch is the only way for the industry to advance the scientific understanding of cannabis,” said Michelle Arbus, Strainprint VP of Research. “We are fortunate in Canada to have a federal program with very high lab testing requirements, consistent across the country, giving us the most standardardized products from which to study and the best chance at personalizing cannabis as a medicine.”
The 2019 Patient Retrospective Report is the cutting edge of cannabis research and a major milestone for the cannabis industry. The Report analyzes user variables such as age, gender, region, usage frequency and efficacy by symptom and is the first research set able to identify which terpenes are active in the cannabis products that are reported to have the highest efficacy by symptom. A few key findings from the Report include:
Muscle pain, anxiety, depression, joint pain and insomnia are the top five symptoms that patients treated with cannabis during the Report period;
There are clear gender differences for the preferred choice of cannabis administration and the most effective methods of can vary by region, gender and age;
Multiple cannabis species are reported to offer comparable relief for particular symptoms, supporting the hypothesis that it is more than the species or the THC:CBD content that determines efficacy of a strain;
Patients overwhelmingly report positive and or neutral emotive effects from their medical cannabis use with very few unfavorable side effects. As well, the specific terpene profiles present in a strain can greatly impact the side effects; and
There was no significant change in how or when patients treated their various symptoms after cannabis was legalized recreationally in Canada.
While more study is certainly needed, Strainprint has raised the bar for cannabis industry research with the largest and most granular real-world observational patient study available. Strainprint Reports complement this data with actionable insights and are available for purchase at https://strainprint.ca/strainprint-reports/.
Founded in Toronto in 2016, StrainprintR Technologies Ltd. is the leading demand-side cannabis data and analytics company. With the world's largest longitudinal, observational data-set of its kind and a mission to advance the scientific understanding of cannabis and its legitimization as a mainstream therapy, Strainprint helps medical cannabis patients and doctors to use cannabis in the most effective and responsible way possible. StrainprintR data platform supports global cannabis research and provides advanced business intelligence and treatment guidance to producers, retailers, medical practitioners, pharmacies, government and industry. Strainprint is HIPAA, PIPEDA and PHIPA privacy compliant, military-grade encrypted and all patient data is completely anonymized and at rest in Canada. Strainprint can be seamlessly embedded or integrated with most electronic medical records (EMR) and seed2sale software systems. Strainprint Analytics is accessed by customer subscription. The Strainprint App is free to patients and can be downloaded from both the iOS App Store and Google Play Store. www.strainprint.ca, facebook, twitter, linkedin. Strainprint Reports are available for purchase at https://strainprint.ca/strainprint-reports/.
B.C. Pharmacare Non-Medical Switch Policy: The Wrong Decision
Release of Legal/Ethics Review of Switch Policy
TORONTO, Sept. 26, 2019 /CNW/ - British Columbia Pharmacare has announced a non-medical switch policy involving biosimilar drugs. The policy will switch patients using certain biologic drugs (Remicade®) to biosimilar versions within a six month timeframe. This will affect approximately 1,700 British Columbians (including children), though this number does not include those in British Columbia currently under compassionate use funded by the manufacturer who will also be affected.
"Crohn's and Colitis Canada understands the fiscal pressure on B.C. Pharmacare, but their non-medical switch policy is missing critical inputs from the patient and healthcare practitioner communities – and considering that they did not consult patient organizations, this is not surprising. The gap between this policy and patients' needs and concerns in particular is massive," says Mina Mawani, President and CEO of Crohn's and Colitis Canada. "Our position, based on extensive review and consultation, is that a non-medical switch is not in the best interest of patients – this should be a decision made by a physician and patient together. Minister Dix's cavalier statement that "there is reluctance in change" vastly understates patient and caregiver feedback. It is unfortunate that B.C. Pharmacare's policy is not patient-centred and rather focused on questionable savings."
Crohn's and Colitis Canada questions the B.C. Pharmacare decision when other viable options are available that do not affect patients currently well-managed on biologic treatment. "Cost savings do not have to be on the backs of vulnerable patients," says Ms. Mawani. "Some payers have found a way to both promote the uptake of biosimilars and also access savings from updated pricing of biologic treatment. The precedent has been set: this is patient-centred care – a non-medical switch is not necessary for the purpose of sustainability of healthcare in Canada."
Crohn's and Colitis Canada released their position on biosimilar drugs and in particular on non-medical switch policy together with a cross-Canada survey of healthcare providers, patients and caregivers on September 5, 2019. Released today is a legal/ethics review that assesses challenges in a Canadian legal, bioethical and policy context to further support the Crohn's and Colitis Canada position. World renowned leader in health law, ethics and science policy Dr. Tim Caulfield, an author of the paper says "The move from biologics to biosimilars can create real ethical and legal challenges for healthcare providers. Physicians have a legal and ethical obligation to put the interests of the patient first."
Canada has one of the highest rates of IBD in the world. Today, more than 33,000 British Columbians have Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis and this number is projected to climb significantly. Crohn's and Colitis Canada remains optimistic that a non-medical switch policy in British Columbia can be reconsidered to put patients' needs first. "We are hopeful that our evidence-informed position and the example from other payers will influence policy in British Columbia and remind healthcare decision makers of the importance of patient input," says Ms. Mawani. "Our focus is on the patient – their health and well-being is our priority."
ABOUT CROHN'S AND COLITIS CANADA Crohn's and Colitis Canada is the only national, volunteer-based charity focused on finding the cures for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis and improving the lives of everyone impacted by these diseases. We are the world's second largest health charity funder of Crohn's and colitis research, and our patient programs and advocacy efforts support the people affected by these chronic autoimmune diseases, which cause the body to attack healthy tissue, leading to the inflammation of all or part of the gastrointestinal tract. Visit crohnsandcolitis.ca for more information.
SOURCE Crohn's and Colitis Canada
FACIT's Prospects Oncology Fund invests in Ontario-developed medical device and novel therapeutic platform technologies
Niche early-stage investment program seeds Ontario's developing pipeline of oncology assets
TORONTO, Sept. 26, 2019 /CNW/ - Three promising Ontario-based oncology innovations are recipients of seed capital through the latest round of FACIT's Prospects Oncology Fund. Medical device start-up Xpan Inc., Dr. Igor Stagljar of the University of Toronto, and the Drug Discovery Program at the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) were selected to receive seed funding among a top-tier pool of applicants.
Xpan Inc., whose CEO Zaid Atto also won FACIT's Falcons' Fortunes pitch competition earlier this year, is developing expandable surgical access ports that aim to increase safety and efficiency of minimally invasive surgeries. Dr. Stagljar is developing a unique and disruptive system for detecting protein-protein interactions in real time for drug discovery applications, while OICR's Drug Discovery Program, led by Dr. Rima Al-awar, will receive funds towards the development of a platform targeting multiple members of the WD40 repeat domain (WDR) family with small molecules. The lattermost project builds on OICR and FACIT's recent success in executing a $1B USD strategic transaction with Celgene for a related WDR5 asset.
FACIT's Prospects Oncology Fund fuels a pipeline of innovations and is imperative to addressing the seed-stage gap experienced by Ontario's life sciences sector. In order to impact the Province's innovation economy, this Ontario First capital helps de-risk innovations through local development, ultimately driving greater value to attract follow-on investment into the province. The Prospects Oncology Fund provides a deal-flow of novel breakthrough discoveries that feed FACIT's Compass Rose Oncology Fund.
Armed with specialization in the oncology market, FACIT has grown its portfolio through these two investment funds, leveraging every dollar invested to attract nearly 20x of additional investment to the Province. Despite typical attrition rates, nearly two-thirds of Compass Rose Fund investee companies have subsequently advanced to secure private financing or successfully exited. This highlights the impact of investing Ontario First capital in the Province's rich talent and innovation pool, bringing economic and patient benefits to Ontario's biotech ecosystem.
"The FACIT team is pleased to support these entrepreneurial scientists, providing both capital and commercialization expertise, as they advance their technologies closer to impacting patients with cancer," said Dr. David O'Neill, President of FACIT. "With these exciting innovations and partners, we look to continue to achieve significant innovation outcomes, anchoring companies, jobs and talent in Ontario."
About FACIT FACIT builds companies with entrepreneurs to accelerate oncology innovation and its portfolio has attracted over 750 million dollars in investment to Ontario. Blending industry experience, capital and the unsurpassed clinician-scientist network of its strategic partner the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR), FACIT capitalizes on the province's investment in research and healthcare to the benefit of the local economy and patients worldwide. FACIT's commercialization portfolio includes Turnstone Biologics, Fusion Pharmaceuticals, Triphase Accelerator and other biotechnology organizations. Cancer Breakthroughs. Realized.facit.ca.
About Xpan Inc. Xpan Inc., a spin-out from the University of Toronto, has developed a patent-pending trocar that is less invasive yet expandable which promises to reduce risk of complications, cost and operative time associated with the use of these devices in minimally invasive surgeries.
About University of Toronto (U of T) Founded in 1827, the University of Toronto is Canada's leading institution of learning, discovery and knowledge creation. U of T is one of the world's top research-intensive universities, driven to invent and innovate. It is also one of the top five universities in the world for its startup incubator programs. In the last 10 years, the U of T entrepreneurship community has created over 500 companies and raised over $1 billion in investment capital.
About the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) OICR is a collaborative, not-for-profit research institute funded by the Government of Ontario. We conduct and enable high-impact translational cancer research to accelerate the development of discoveries for patients around the world while maximizing the economic benefit of this research for the people of Ontario. For more information visit www.oicr.on.ca.
SOURCE FACIT Inc.
800 cyclists to participate in Ride for Cancer powered by BMO Bank of Montreal on September 28
HALIFAX, Sept. 26, 2019 /CNW/ -
What:
On Saturday, September 28, more than 800 riders will embark on an epic journey spanning 160 kilometres from Mahone Bay to Halifax. Ride for Cancer powered by BMO Bank of Montreal is Atlantic Canada's largest one-day fundraising cycling event hosted in partnership by the QEII Foundation and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada.
When:
Interview opportunities with participants: Saturday, September 28 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Where:
LED Roadway Lighting, 115 Chain Lake Drive, Halifax, N.S. (finish line celebration)
Why:
Since 2015, Ride for Cancer powered by BMO Bank of Montreal has raised over $1.7 million net to advance cancer care for Atlantic Canadians. Funds raised here, stay here, and this year riders will support local cancer care to: - fund state-of-the art cervical cancer diagnostic and treatment equipment; - help fund Atlantic Canada's first surgical robotics system at the QEII, which will treat a range of cancers with a laser focus on prostate cancer; - fuel ground-breaking research to find new treatments and cures for blood cancer patients; and - provide more support programs for patients and their families during the toughest moments of the lives.
Who:
Riders – completing five distance options via the Rum Runners Trail (25, 50, 75 or 100 kilometres) or via road (100, 130 or 160 kilometres) – volunteers, sponsors, and supporters.
SOURCE QEII FOUNDATION
Paséa Spa (https://meritagecollection.com/pasea-hotel/spa) in Huntington Beach is launching a new series of treatments using CBD Essentials products (details below). The new services will be a luxe experience in the trending CBD massage space in Southern California.
CBD Essentials founder Aryn Sieber is a Stage IV Cancer survivor who used cannabis in his own treatment. He is incredibly passionate about both the quality and potency of CBD as well as the purity of the other ingredients used by the brand, making for the ultimate CBD massage experience.
Select bookings for CBD massage services at Paséa Spa (below) available upon request. -Chic Directive, Inc.
CBD Enhance Sleep Journey (EACH JOURNEY INCLUDES A PATH OF SUGGESTED SPA RITUALS PLUS AN OFFERING, OR BALINESE SOKASI BASKET, TO ENHANCE THE JOURNEY TO FULFILL MIND, BODY, AND SOUL.)
KELIP twinkle SUGGESTED 2.5 HOURS MEDITATION | MASSAGE | REFLECTION This journey focuses on calming all of the senses. Begin by coupling 20-minutes of guided meditation and breathing with a 75-minute sleep-inducing massage. This is enhanced by the soothing notes of lavender CBD oil and warm Himalayan salt stones with a focus centered on the head and feet. You will then spend time relaxing under a weighted blanket with sleep sounds providing a quiet moment of reflection or restful slumber.
CBD Massage MINERAL REMEDY 50 MINUTES | 100 MINUTES This nourishing and re-mineralizing massage delivers the power of healing magnesium or CBD oil to promote detoxification and replenish commonly deficient levels. Enjoy healthy energy levels, sleep, muscle function and improved well-being.
CBD Enhanced Balinese Blessing Baths BALINESE BLESSING BATH 100 MINUTES This tradition inspired treatment begins with a sea salt soak in our Signature Suite followed by a 75-minute Collection Massage. Enhance your experience by selecting one of the following salt soak blends; Bali Flowers, Coconilla, Eucalyptus Mineral Wellness, Ginger Spice or CBD & Lavender Salt Infusion.
CBD Holiday Signature Treatment Peppermint Bliss GWP: Merry Holiday Candle & Peppermint Essential Rollerball 100m I $359 Description: Steep holiday stress away with a peppermint & CBD infused salt soak followed by a nourishing and remineralizing massage designed to help restore healthy energy levels, enhance sleep, promote better muscle function and overall well-being.
About the products featured: CANNAISSEUR BRANDS LAUNCHES NEW CBD ESSENTIALS
“Therapy Designed by Nature”
Topically Applied Farm-to-Skin CBD Products Featuring the Brand’s Award-Winning Flower
LOS ANGELES, CALIF. (SUMMER 2019)—This season, Cannaisseur Brands is re-launching its topically applied terpene-rich CBD Essentials product line with new branding, logo and packaging. The brand was founded by CBD industry expert and advocate Aryn Sieber, who consults with physicians and patients nationwide on the responsible use and medicinal benefits of cannabis. Sieber became a sought-after professional leader in the industry after using cannabis during his own battle with Stage IV cancer. CBD Essentials topically applied products are lab-formulated, third-party tested, and batch numbered to ensure quality and consistency. All CBD Essentials products feature Sieber’s award-winning flower and meet the federal requirements of the 2018 Farm Bill, which mandates that all CBD-infused products are derived from dried Cannabis Sativa L. plant material that contain less than 0.3 percent THC to be legal in the United States.
“CBD Essentials is dedicated to developing the highest quality therapeutic cannabis-infused products available,” said Ayrn Sieber, Founder of Cannaisseur Brands. “Using premium CBD flower and select terpenes in our award-winning farm-to skin formulas, the products are designed to optimize and support personal health and well-being.”
Real-world testing has shown CBD to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and to act as an antibacterial, antitumoral and antimicrobial. Studies also have shown that CBD can balance oil production in the skin. Furthermore, because the human body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) is critically responsible for the life cycle of basal skin cells, some treatments encourage the ECS with topically applied CBD in an effort to help regulate the production of healthy skin. (It is important to note that therapeutic statements for CBD products are not yet evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.)
CBD is non-psychoactive. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant that act on cannabinoid receptors in cells in the human body that alter neurotransmitter release in the brain. Ligands or bonding molecules for these receptor proteins include endocannabinoids which are naturally produced in the body. Terpenes refer to a class of compounds found in nearly every plant species including cannabis. They have been shown to influence many biological activities—including reduction of inflammation, reduced sensitivity to pain, and reduced anxiety. Terpenes and cannabinoids share a common biochemical precursor, giving them the ability to bind with different biological substances in the body, including receptors and enzymes.
The Cannaisseur Brands Summer 2019 collection features six key products:
CBD Essentials Pain Cream—This body cream, formulated to offer pain relief for sore muscles, aching joints, and chronic skin conditions, won the Les Nouvelles Esthétiques & Spa “Best New Product” award in 2018. A therapeutic blend of premium CBD, select terpenes, and organic hydrators such as coconut oil and shea butter facilitate muscle rejuvenation and replenish moisture for dry skin conditions. The product uses 50 mg. per oz. of premium CBD. CBD Essentials Pain Relief Cream is available in Green Tea Cucumber and Natural in sizes 1.5 oz. at a retail price of $24; 3 oz. at a retail price of $80; and 6 oz. at a retail price of $160. CBD Essentials Pain Cream is now offered in the same sizes in Extra-Strength at 100 mg. per oz.
CBD Essentials Salt Soak Concentrate—This therapeutic blend of immune-boosting, mineral-rich sea salts, combined with premium CBD and select terpenes was formulated to soothe sore muscles, reduce stress, and induce relaxation. This product won the Les Nouvelles Esthétiques & Spa “Best New Product” award in 2019. CBD Essentials Salt Soak is available in Green Tea Cucumber, Eucalyptus, Lavender and Natural in sizes 1 oz. at a retail price of $16; 3 oz. at a retail price of $40; 5 oz. at a retail price of $70; and 6 oz. at a retail price of $80.
CBD Essentials Body + Massage Oil—This product features organic coconut oil infused with premium CBD to reduce discomfort associated with muscle and joint inflammation. This non-greasy topically applied product helps to rejuvenate tired muscles and aching joints, enhancing recovery and relieving pain. It was formulated to be used for therapeutic and oncology massages, and has been shown help reduce inflammation associated with arthritis, fibromyalgia, tendonitis and psoriasis in hundreds of real-world test cases. Designed for all skin types, the CBD EssentialsBody + Massage Oil also can improve dry skin, deeply hydrating for maximum benefit and long-lasting protection. CBD Essentials Body + Massage Oil is available in Green Tea Cucumber, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Lavender and Natural in sizes 1 oz. at a retail price of $29; and 4 oz. spray at a retail price of $90.
CBD Essentials Massage Roll-On—This product features the same formulation of CBD Essentials Body + Massage Oil, in the convenience of a roll-on applicator. CBD Essentials Massage Roll-On is available in Green Tea Cucumber, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Lavender and Natural in sizes 0.3 oz. at a retail price of $12; and 3 oz. at a retail price of $70.
CBD Essentials Transdermal Patch—This THC-free time-released product delivers 70 mg. of premium CBD via a 2.5 in. by 3.5 in. waterproof adhesive patch (so it can be worn in the shower and during a workout) and is effective for up to 36 hours. CBD Essentials Transdermal Patch is unscented and available at a retail price of $30.
CBD Essentials Lip Balm—The first lip balm launched by the brand, CBD Essentials Lip Balm is formulated to moisturize the lips from discomfort associated with dryness and deeply hydrate dry skin for maximum benefit and long-lasting protection. CBD Essentials Lip Balm is available in Tropical Punch, Grape, Coconut, Vanilla and Peppermint in 0.15 oz. at a retail price of $8.
CBD Essentials products are available at CannasseurBrands.com and select spas, wellness centers and specialty retail outlets nationwide.### About Cannaisseur Brands Cannaisseur Brands was launched by cannabis industry advocate Aryn Sieber, who consults with physicians nation-wide on the legal use of medical cannabis and CBD for their patients. Sieber became a sought-after professional leader in the CBD and medical cannabis industry after using medical cannabis and CBD during his own battle with Stage IV cancer. The topically applied products in the Cannaisseur Brand line are lab-formulated, third-party tested, and batch numbered to ensure quality and consistency. All products in the line feature the brand’s award-winning flower.
Camp Trillium and Camp Oochigeas Announce Merger Agreement
We are better together and look forward to expanding joint programs across Ontario for children and families affected by childhood cancer.
HAMILTON, ON and TORONTO, Sept. 26, 2019 /CNW/ - The Boards of Directors of Camp Trillium and Camp Oochigeas (Ooch) today announced a merger agreement aimed at furthering their shared goal of reaching every child and family affected by childhood cancer across Ontario. For more than 30 years, Camp Ooch and Camp Trillium have each provided life-changing and enriching camp programs for thousands of children and families affected by childhood cancer. The merger will enable deeper support for families, result in camp programs in more communities, including eight hospitals across Ontario, and bring more children and their families to overnight camps.
"We are excited to work with our friends at Camp Ooch to expand family-focused childhood cancer programming in Ontario," said Marci Shea-Perry, Executive Director, Camp Trillium. "The challenges we face and needs we address separately are best met by working together."
The combined organization will deliver first-class programming currently provided independently, under one umbrella. The result will be a stronger organization, a broader donor and supporter base, and a more sustainable financial structure.
"We look forward to working with Camp Trillium to strengthen support for children and families affected by childhood cancer," said Alex Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Camp Ooch. "This is about leveraging our combined strengths for the benefit of campers, their families, our collective volunteers and staffs, and the long-time supporters of both our organizations."
Upon completion of the merger, Alex Robertson, Chief Executive Officer of Camp Ooch, will become CEO of the combined province-wide organization. Marci Shea-Perry, Executive Director of Camp Trillium, will step into the new role of Executive Director, Strategy & Integration, supporting Alex by overseeing the merger of the operations.
Camp Trillium and Camp Ooch head offices are located in Hamilton and Toronto, respectively. These offices will remain in place, and staff will remain in existing roles. The combined organization will continue to operate all current programming, including in-hospital programs, community programs at Ooch Downtown and elsewhere in Ontario, and overnight camp at Ooch Muskoka, Camp Trillium-Rainbow Lake, Waterford (Southwestern region), Camp Trillium-OuR Island, Wellington (Eastern region).
About Camp Ooch
Camp Ooch is a privately funded, volunteer-based organization that provides kids with and affected by childhood cancer unique opportunities for growth through challenging, fun, enriching and magical experiences. Camp Ooch offers year-round programs across Ontario and at overnight camp in Muskoka—the only one of its kind in Canada able to provide IV chemotherapy and blood transfusions.
Our province-wide community and in-hospital programs take place in paediatric care centres including SickKids and McMaster Children's Hospital, Children's Hospital London Health Sciences Centre, Credit Valley Hospital (Trillium Health Partners), Rouge Valley Centenary (Scarborough Health Network) and Southlake Regional Health Centre. We bring the Magic of Ooch to over 1,600 children and their families from across Ontario each year, at no cost to Campers' families.
About Camp Trillium
Camp Trillium (officially The Trillium Childhood Cancer Support Centre) offers year-round recreational programs to bring children with cancer and their families together. We work to provide an environment that normalizes relationships and experiences helping families affected by childhood cancer in their healing process and enhancing their quality of life. Camp Trillium offers year round programs in Southwestern Ontario, at McMaster Children's Hospital and in various communities around the province.
SOURCE Camp Ooch
TRAIN IT RIGHT NEWSLETTER
Sign Up and get a free 7 day Train it Right HIIT Program!
