Canopy Growth Receives New Health Canada Licence in Atlantic Canada That Will Boost Output, Create Jobs

New $40M production facility will increase Canopy Growth's cannabis output by more than 5,000kg annually, create more than 130 jobs in Fredericton, NB

SMITHS FALLS, ON and FREDERICTON, NB, March 25, 2019 /CNW/ - Canopy Growth Corporation (TSX: WEED), (NYSE: CGC) ("Canopy Growth" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has received a cultivation licence from Health Canada for its facility in Fredericton, New Brunswick. With this licensing, Canopy Growth predicts the facility will initially produce more than 5,000kg of cannabis annually, with first harvests expected to become available to the market within six months. 

Developed in collaboration with Canopy Rivers Inc. (TSXV: RIV) and operating under Canopy Growth's flagship Tweed brand, the facility will support the Company's global and local operations with high quality, large-scale cannabis production capabilities that will serve the needs of recreational and medical customers. To meet that demand, Canopy Growth expects to create more than 130 jobs at the Fredericton plant.  

"New Brunswick has emerged as a leader in the legal cannabis sector and the province is an excellent place to do business," said Bruce Linton, co-CEO and Chairman, Canopy Growth. "We will leverage our existing operational expertise to ensure we support the needs of our customers while making a meaningful contribution to the local economy primarily through new job creation." 

Canopy Growth expects to fill a wide variety of jobs at the facility, including lab supervisors, technologists, growers, post-harvest crews, quality assurance experts, as well as shipping and maintenance crews. Their combined efforts will position the facility as one of Atlantic Canada's leading growth operations, capable of supplying the market with a steady, reliable and high-quality stream of commercial cannabis products. With distribution and strong partnerships across each of Atlantic Canada's provinces, this facility further strengthens the Company's commitment to the region.

In the coming weeks, Canopy Growth looks forward to sharing details regarding local job fairs to fill these positions. Interested applicants are encouraged to monitor canopygrowth.com/careers and the Company's Twitter feed @CanopyGrowth for more information.

Here's to Future (Maritime) Growth. 

About Canopy Growth Corporation
Canopy Growth is a world-leading diversified cannabis and hemp company, offering distinct brands and curated cannabis varieties in dried, oil and Softgel capsule forms. Canopy Growth offers medically approved vaporizers 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 is proudly dedicated to educating healthcare practitioners, conducting robust clinical research, and furthering the public's understanding of cannabis, and through its wholly owned subsidiary, Canopy Health Innovations ("Canopy Health"), has devoted millions of dollars toward cutting edge, commercializable research and IP development. Canopy Growth works with the Beckley Foundation and has launched Beckley Canopy Therapeutics to research and develop clinically validated cannabis-based medicines, with a strong focus on intellectual property protection. Canopy Growth acquired assets of leading hemp research company, ebbu, Inc. ("ebbu"). Intellectual Property ("IP") and R&D advancements achieved by ebbu's team apply directly to Canopy Growth's hemp and THC-rich cannabis genetic breeding program and its cannabis-infused beverage capabilities. Through partly owned subsidiary Canopy Rivers Corporation, the Company is providing resources and investment to new market entrants and building a portfolio of stable investments in the sector.

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 icon Snoop Dogg, breeding legends DNA Genetics and Green House seeds, Battelle, the world's largest nonprofit research and development organization, and Fortune 500 alcohol leader Constellation Brands, to name but a few. Canopy Growth operates ten licensed cannabis production sites with over 4.3 million square feet of production capacity, including over 500,000 square feet of GMP certified production space. The Company operates Tweed retail stores in Newfoundland and Manitoba and has entered into supply agreements with every Canadian province and territory. 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 statements with respect to future product format offerings. 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 the Company's ability to satisfy provincial sales contracts or provinces purchasing all cannabis allocated to them, and such risks contained in the Company's annual information form dated June 27, 2018 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 Canopy Growth Corporation

Twelve Canadian organizations win Employee Recommended Workplace Awards

Morneau Shepell and The Globe and Mail announce 2019 category winners at the third annual conference and award ceremony

TORONTO, March 25, 2019 /CNW/ - On March 19, Morneau Shepell and The Globe and Mail announced the category winners of the third annual Employee Recommended Workplace Award at The Globe and Mail's Solving Workplace Challenges conference in Toronto. The winning organizations achieved the top Total Health scores in their categories, representing privately owned, public, not-for-profit and government sectors in small, mid-sized and large businesses. The category winners will be profiled nationally in The Globe and Mail on Friday, March 29.

The Employee Recommended Workplace Award recognizes excellence in achieving a healthy, engaged and productive workforce, and is the only award of its kind based entirely on feedback from employees. Employees completed a short confidential survey that includes questions about their physical and mental health, as well as aspects of their work and life – all elements of Total Health that impact employee engagement and productivity. On completion, organizations received a summary report that identified areas of strength and areas where more work may be needed to improve the health of their workforce.

The 2019 Employee Recommended Workplace Award category winners are:

"Upholding a healthy and productive workplace can be a challenging feat for employers," said Stephen Liptrap, President and Chief Executive Officer, Morneau Shepell. "Workplace stress and isolation continue to affect employees at a higher rate each year, making it significantly more difficult for employers to achieve positive total well-being of all employees. The 2019 Employee Recommended Workplace Award recipients recognize that successfully supporting the physical, mental, work and life health of employees is critical to creating a healthy workplace culture and to improving the bottom line. We are excited to honour these industry-leading companies that are paving the way for employee well-being in Canada."  

"We're thrilled to see new and returning organizations represented in this year's awards. These companies are leading the way in prioritizing employee wellness," said Phillip Crawley, Publisher and Chief Executive Officer, The Globe and Mail. "We are delighted to recognize organizations that continue to uphold a high standard of employee well-being and congratulate all of the 2019 winners."

Morneau Shepell and The Globe and Mail named a total of 75 organizations who qualified as Employee Recommended Workplaces in the third annual awards. The full list of recipients can be found here: http://morneaushepell.mediaroom.com/2019-02-07-Seventy-five-organizations-recognized-as-Employee-Recommended-Workplaces-for-2019. 

The fourth annual 2020 Employee Recommended Workplace Awards opens in early April. For more information on the awards and to register online, please visit employeerecommended.com. 

About Morneau Shepell 
Morneau Shepell is the only human resources consulting and technology company that takes an integrated approach to employee well-being, health, benefits and retirement needs. The Company is the largest administrator of retirement and benefits plans and the largest provider of integrated absence management solutions in Canada. LifeWorks by Morneau Shepell is a total well-being solution that combines employee assistance, wellness, recognition and incentive programs. As a leader in strategic HR consulting and innovative pension design, the Company also helps clients solve complex workforce problems and provides integrated productivity, health and retirement solutions. Established in 1966, Morneau Shepell serves approximately 24,000 clients, ranging from small businesses to some of the largest corporations and associations. With more than 4,500 employees in offices worldwide, Morneau Shepell provides services to organizations around the globe. Morneau Shepell is a publicly-traded company on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: MSI). For more information, visit morneaushepell.com.

About The Globe and MailThe Globe and Mail is Canada's foremost news media company, leading the national discussion and causing policy change through brave and independent journalism since 1844. With our award-winning coverage of business, politics and national affairs, The Globe and Mail newspaper reaches 6.7 million readers every week in our print or digital formats, and Report on Business magazine reaches 1.7 million readers in print and digital every issue. Our investment in innovative data science means that as the world continues to change, so does The Globe. The Globe and Mail is owned by Woodbridge, the investment arm of the Thomson family.

SOURCE Morneau Shepell Inc.

New cannabis program launches at McMaster Continuing Education

HAMILTON, ON, March 25, 2019 /CNW/ - McMaster University Continuing Education opened enrolment today for its new Science of Cannabis program – one of the first post-secondary programs in the country focused on the scientific study of cannabis and its therapeutic applications, risks and harms. 

In partnership with the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research and the Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research, the program offers an evidence-based approach to understanding the science behind the substance. As a 3-course academic certificate of completion, the program can be taken entirely online through McMaster Continuing Education and will be available to interested persons working in the health, education, public service, and social and community services sectors across the country. 

Dr. James MacKillop, holder of the Peter Boris Chair in Addictions Research, Director of the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research, and Director of the Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research, is responsible for overseeing the development of all course content and looks forward to sharing current research with participants. 

"This program really takes advantage of a lot of faculty expertise," said MacKillop. "Students are going to have first-hand exposure to all different avenues of cannabis research that are being pursued within our centres." 

To combat abundant misinformation about the substance, the Science of Cannabis program addresses the need for high-quality education in the field and provides students with the knowledge to separate fact from fiction. 

Dr. Lorraine Carter, Director of McMaster Continuing Education, believes there is enthusiasm for the topic across a variety of sectors. 

"Our goal is to offer programming that aligns with industry trends and provides skill development for working professionals," said Carter. "We know the scientific study of cannabis is something that individuals from physicians to social workers to first responders and others will be interested in. The program will help demonstrate how cannabis research interacts with fields such as addictions, mental health and public policy."

The first course, Fundamentals of Cannabis Science, will start in May 2019 and will provide a broad overview of what is known about cannabis including: the constituents of the plant, the various types of cannabis people use, pharmacology and routes of administration, effects on the body, policy in Canada, potential risks and harms, and possible therapeutic benefits. The first course will be instructed by Dr. Michael Amlung, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at McMaster University and faculty member of the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research. 

For more information about the Science of Cannabis program, please visit mcmastercce.ca/the-science-of-cannabis-program. McMaster Continuing Education also offers professional programming in addictions studies, health & social services, and applied clinical research. For information about all of these programs and more, visit mcmastercce.ca. 

McMaster Continuing Education is one of Canada's largest and leading providers of academic certificate and diploma programs, professional development education, and corporate training. Programs are available in Business & Management, Communication & Design, Health & Social Services and Metallurgy. 

SOURCE McMaster University, Centre for Continuing Education

Health Canada Approves CIMZIA® (certolizumab pegol) for Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis

Health Canada also approves Label Updates in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

OAKVILLE, ON, March 25, 2019 /CNW/ - UCB Canada Inc. announced today that Health Canada has approved a new indication for CIMZIA®(certolizumab pegol) for the treatment of adult patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (PsO) who are candidates for systemic therapy.ⁱ The approval makes CIMZIA the first Fc-free, PEGylated anti-TNF option available for the treatment of the disease where significant unmet need currently exists. UCB Canada Inc. also announced that Health Canada has approved label updates in pregnancy and breastfeeding based on two pivotal pharmacokinetic studies.^ii,iii This marks a major advance for Canadian women of all ages living with plaque psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases.

"The approval of a new and effective treatment option in plaque psoriasis with demonstrated durable and flexible disease control is welcome news for Canadian patients and physicians," said Dr. Wayne Gulliver, B.Sc., B.Med.Sc., M.D., FRCPC, dermatologist and Professor of Medicine (Dermatology) at Memorial University in St. John's, Newfoundland. "CIMZIA's similar efficacy in both biologic-naïve patients and those previously treated with other biologics also helps meet an unmet need in this area." 

Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition that impacts more than one million Canadians^iv of all ages and about 125 million people worldwide.^vThere is currently no cure for psoriasis and patients may experience recurrence of symptoms throughout their life. The disease affects both men and women, with about 75 per cent of psoriasis cases in women occurring before the age of 40.^vi Therefore, psoriasis may impact women during a critical time when many are planning for families.^vii

"For people living with plaque psoriasis, this is a welcome new treatment option to help them manage their disease," said Kathryn Andrews-Clay, Executive Director, Canadian Association of Psoriasis Patients. "Living with psoriasis can be isolating and, at times, stressful. Combine this with balancing treatment and planning for a family, or caring for a newborn, and it can be overwhelming. We are thrilled that with CIMZIA women now have an option to control their disease at any stage of their lives – including before, during and after pregnancy."

"The approval of CIMZIA for psoriasis, and label update regarding pregnancy and breastfeeding in women with autoimmune diseases, are important treatment advances which build on more than 10 years of market experience and proven efficacy and safety," said Lionel Houle, Head of Immunology, UCB Canada Inc."Today's announcement reflects our heritage of making a difference for specific patient populations with unmet needs. Many women living with autoimmune diseases would benefit from a clearer understanding of the impact treatment can have on their baby, flare management during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and whether to restart treatment after pregnancy."

Health Canada's approval for the treatment of adult patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (PsO) who are candidates for systemic therapy is based on data from a Phase 3 clinical development program consisting of CIMPASI-1, CIMPASI-2 and CIMPACT. The trials enrolled a total of 1,020 patients, ≥ 18 years of age of whom nearly one third had prior biologic exposure, and confirmed the durable efficacy up to 48 weeks and safety of CIMZIA in the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.^viii Each of the three studies included an assessment of the percentage of patients who achieved at least 75% and 90% or greater disease improvement from baseline, as measured by the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75 and PASI 90, respectively) compared to placebo; within 16 weeks in CIMPASI-1 and CIMPASI-2, and within 12 weeks in CIMPACT. CIMPASI-1, CIMPASI-2 and CIMPACT also assessed the percentage of patients who achieved at least a two-point improvement on a five-point Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) scale to a final score representing clear or almost clear skin, each compared with placebo, at week 16. In all three trials, CIMZIA demonstrated statistically significant improvements for all primary and coprimary endpoints compared to placebo at all tested doses, and the clinical benefit was maintained through to week 48. These findings and the new approval in psoriasis that they support are significant because they build on four years of efficacy and safety data in psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

According to the updated label, the recommended dose of CIMZIA for adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis is 400 mg every other week (given as two subcutaneous injections of 200 mg each). A dose of 400 mg initially (week 0) and at Weeks 2 and 4 followed by 200 mg every 2 weeks may be considered.

About Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition. Psoriasis signs and symptoms can vary but may include red patches of skin covered with silvery scales, dry, cracked skin that may bleed and thickened, pitted or ridged nails.^ix 

Psoriasis affects nearly three percent of the population, or approximately 125 million people worldwide.^x Symptoms vary from person to person, but for those who are more severely affected, psoriasis can have a major impact on their quality of life.^xi

As many as 42% of patients with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis,^xii,xiii 33% will develop metabolic syndrome,[xiv] and approximately 46% are often or always depressed because of their psoriasis.^xv Despite drug development advances in the past decade, patient survey data suggest that moderate-to-severe psoriasis is being undertreated.^xvi

About the CIMPASI-1, CIMPASI-2 and CIMPACT Studies^xvii
In CIMPASI-1 and CIMPASI-2, at week 16, the response rate for patients who achieved a PASI 75 response was 75% and 82% for patients receiving CZP 400 mg every two weeks (Q2W) and 65% and 81% for patients receiving CZP 200 mg every two weeks (Q2W), compared to 7% and 13% for patients receiving placebo, respectively. The response rate for patients who achieved a PASI 90 response was 44% and 52% for patients receiving CZP 400 mg every Q2W and 36% and 50% for patients receiving CZP 200 mg Q2W, compared to 0% and 5% for patients receiving placebo, respectively. In addition, the response rates for patients achieving at least a two-point improvement to a final score of clear or almost clear skin on the PGA scale (PGA 0/1) at week 16 was 55% and 65% for CZP 400 Q2W dose-treated subjects, and 45% and 61% for CZP 200 mg Q2W dose-treated patients, compared to 4% and 3% for subjects receiving placebo, respectively. Week 16 PASI 75 responders maintained a PASI 75 response to week 48 in 94% and 81% of patients receiving CZP 400mg Q2W, and 81% and 74% for patients receiving CZP 200 mg Q2W, respectively.

In CIMPACT, the response rate for patients who achieved a PASI 75 response at week 16 was 69% and 75% among patients receiving CZP 400 mg Q2W and CZP 200 mg Q2W, compared to 4% for patients receiving placebo, respectively. The response rate for patients who achieved a PASI 90 at week 16 was 49% and 40% among patients receiving CZP 400 mg Q2W and CZP 200 mg Q2W, compared to 0% for patients receiving placebo. In patients who received CZP 400 mg Q2W and were PASI 75 responders at week 16, 98% maintained their response at week 48. In addition, 80% of patients who received CZP 200 mg Q2W from week 16 maintained their response at week 48.

In all three trials, CIMZIA demonstrated statistically significant improvements for all primary or co-primary endpoints compared to placebo at all treatment doses, and the clinical benefit was maintained through to 48 weeks. The adverse event profile across all three trials appears consistent with the safety pro􀁾le for CIMZIA in other approved indications. In the placebo- controlled portions of the clinical trials in psoriasis patients, elevated liver enzymes were reported more frequently in the CIMZIA-treated patients than in placebo-treated patients, 4.3% in the 200mg group, 2.3% in the 400mg group, and 2.5% in placebo. Additionally, cases of other psoriasis subtypes were reported (including erythrodermic, pustular, and guttate) in <1% of CIMZIA-treated patients.

About the CRIB Study^xviii
CRIB was a pharmacokinetic study assessing the potential level of placental transfer of certolizumab pegol (CZP) from pregnant women to their infants. The study followed 16 women (≥ 30 weeks gestation) who were already receiving CZP at approved doses. 

The study found that CZP levels were below the lower limit of quantification (LLOQ = 0.032 micrograms/ML) in 13 out of 15 infant blood samples at birth, and in all samples at weeks four and eight. One infant had a minimal CZP level of 0.042ug/ML, which was 0.09% of the mother's plasma concentration at birth. In a second infant, delivered by emergency Caesarean section, the concentration was 0.485 mcg/mL, which was 4.49% of the mother's plasma concentration at birth. At Week 4 and Week 8, all 15 infants had no measurable concentrations. No anti-CZP antibodies were detected in mothers, umbilical cords, or infants. Among 16 exposed infants, one serious adverse reaction was reported in a neonate who was treated empirically with intravenous antibiotics due to an increased white blood cell count; blood cultures were negative. These data indicate negligible to low placental transfer of CZP from mothers to infants, suggesting minimal in-utero fetal exposure during the third trimester.

About the CRADLE Study^xix
The primary objectives of the CRADLE pharmacokinetic study were to determine the concentration of CZP in human breast milk and the average daily infant dose, an estimation of the daily dose of maternal CZP ingested by the breastfeeding infant. 

Among 137 breast milk samples from 17 mothers, 56% had no measurable CZP; the remaining samples showed minimal levels of CZP. The median of the estimated average daily infant doses was 0.0035 mg/kg/day (range: 0 to 0.01 mg/kg/day). The percentage of the maternal dose (200 mg CIMZIA dosed once every 2 weeks), that reaches an infant ranged from 0.56% to 4.25% based on samples with measurable certolizumab pegol concentration.

In CRADLE, no serious adverse reactions were noted in the 17 infants in the study. Adverse events in mothers exposed to CZP were consistent with the known safety profile of CZP.

About CIMZIA in Canada^xx
CIMZIA is the only Fc-free, PEGylated anti-TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor). CIMZIA has a high affinity for human TNF-alpha, selectively neutralizing the pathophysiological effects of TNFalpha.

CIMZIA in combination methotrexate (MTX) is indicated for reducing signs and symptoms, inducing major clinical response, and reducing the progression of joint damage as assessed by X-ray, in adult patients with moderately-to-severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA). CIMZIA may be used alone for reducing signs and symptoms in adult patients with moderately- to -severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who do not tolerate MTX.

CIMZIA alone or in combination with MTX is indicated for reducing signs and symptoms and inhibiting the progression of structural damage as assessed by X-ray, in adult patients with moderately-to-severely active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) who have failed one or more disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). 

CIMZIA is also indicated for reducing signs and symptoms in adult patients with active ankylosing spondylitis (AS) who have had an inadequate response to conventional therapy. 

CIMZIA is approved for the treatment of adult patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy. 

Important and complete safety information about CIMZIA can be found by accessing the product monograph at: https://www.ucb-canada.ca/_up/ucbpharma_ca_en/documents/Cimzia-PM-WOCBA-approved-en-08feb2019.pdf

About UCB Canada Inc.
Inspired by patients and driven by science, UCB Canada Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of innovative medicines and solutions to transform the lives of people living with severe autoimmune and central nervous system diseases. For more information, please consult https://www.ucb-canada.ca/

References

SOURCE UCB Canada Inc.

Drake’s Organic Spirits Gives Animals in Need a Second Chance

Fast-growing spirits brand funds rescue center for animals in urgent need

Minneapolis, Minnesota ( March 25, 2019 ) - – Drake’s Organic Spirits, an environmentally conscious and growing brand leading the spirits industry with its commitment to a better planet for man and beast, announced today that it will provide financial and material support to Long Lake Animal Rescue.  The non-profit foundation located on 40 acres in Long Lake, MN provides a safe and loving environment for a variety of animals including horses, donkeys, dogs, cats, deer, goats and virtually any animal that needs a second chance.

Drake’s Organic Spirits produces premium organic vodka, white rum, spiced rum, Spiked Ice ice pops and organic mixes. The company’s founders, Mark and Kristen Anderson, have long had a passion for causes that support animals.  It’s a passion that has been passed down to their three daughters.

“Long Lake Animal Rescue provides a life-saving home for animals who have been given up on, abused or abandoned.  All they need is a second chance and unconditional love.  Drake’s Organic Spirits is committed to supporting our four-legged family members who bring so much joy to our lives every day,” said Mark Anderson. 

One such example is Spud, a horse at the end of his racing career. Instead of being shipped off to be slaughtered for food, he was brought to Long Lake Animal Rescue. Over the next year Spud will unwind by spending time in grass filled pastures playing with other horses. Eventually Spud will provide therapeutic relief to others by providing grooming and trail rides.

In addition to its support of the animal rescue, Drake’s supports other important animal-related causes such as the recent Drake’s Banquet Celebrating 21 Years of Compassionate Action for Animals.  The event raised funds the  nonprofit organization whose mission is to encourage people to embrace their empathy for farmed animals and move toward a plant-based diet. 

Drake’s is the first and only spirit line in the world to achieve five certifications: USDA Organic, Vegan, Gluten Free, Non GMO Project Verified and Kosher.  It’s received Gold Medals at the prestigious San Diego International Spirits Competition and the Asia International Spirits Competition.  

About Drake’s Organic Spirits 
Minneapolis-based Drake’s Organic Spirits was launched in 2017.  Drake’s uses the highest quality USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified ingredients to create a line of ultra- premium organic spirits. Drake’s Organic Vodka, Drake’s Organic White Rum and Drake’s Organic Spiced Rum offer a no grain, no gluten, no gmo, ultra-premium, 12 times distilled handcrafted spirits at a better price than the leading premium brands.  Drake’s Organic Mixers and Organic Spiked Ice compliment their offering for adult beverages.

Aducanumab Failure: Selectivity for the Toxic Oligomer is Essential to Treating Root Cause of Alzheimer's Disease

Discontinued aducanumab phase 3 studies emphasize urgent need for therapies that target the toxic oligomer with exacting precision 

TORONTO and CAMBRIDGE, MA, March 21, 2019 /CNW/ - ProMIS Neurosciences, Inc. (TSX: PMN) (OTCQB: ARFXF), a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of antibody therapeutics targeting toxic oligomers implicated in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, highlights the urgent need to selectively target the toxic oligomer with exacting precision as part of the global effort to develop disease-modifying therapies for Alzheimer's disease (AD). 

On March 20, Biogen and its partner, Eisai, terminated two late-stage clinical trials of aducanumab, which could have offered a disease-modifying therapy for Alzheimer's disease. The termination of aducanumab phase 3 trials, along with the discontinuation of the crenezumab program by Roche Holdings and partner AC Immune announced on January 30, underscores the urgent need for drug candidates that are highly selective for the toxic oligomer form of amyloid beta (Aβ). Aducanumab was not selective enough as it binds mainly to the plaque form of Aβ. Likewise, crenezumab was not selective for the toxic oligomer as it binds all forms of Aβ. 

"These are the hard lessons of science, but there's hope. Aducanumab was developed over a decade ago to go after plaque, which we have since learned is the incorrect therapeutic target because plaque is a largely non-toxic form of amyloid beta," explained Dr. James Kupiec, ProMIS Chief Medical Officer. "Aducanumab wasted too much limited ammunition on the wrong target, which also led to the dose limiting side effect of brain swelling (edema). Unlike aducanumab, ProMIS' lead antibody candidate for Alzheimer's, PMN310, reflects key lessons learned, namely that the toxic oligomer of amyloid beta is a root cause of AD, not plaque. PMN310 is the first antibody to selectively target just the toxic oligomer, a misfolded, toxic form of amyloid beta, offering a potential significant advantage over aducanumab and other less selective antibodies in terms of both efficacy and safety."

Responding to numerous studies showing the toxic oligomer, a misfolded protein that derives from naturally occurring Aβ, as a root cause of Alzheimer's disease, ProMIS Neurosciences has created a novel, proprietary method for generating and developing antibodies that can uniquely and precisely target this toxic misfolded protein, filling a critical gap for drug developers. Preclinical studies show the company's lead antibody candidate, PMN310, demonstrates a high degree of binding to toxic oligomers from Alzheimer's disease brains without binding to plaque or other non-toxic forms of Aβ.

About ProMIS Neurosciences

ProMIS Neurosciences, Inc. is a development stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing antibody therapeutics selectively targeting toxic oligomers implicated in the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, in particular Alzheimer's disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson's disease (PD). The Company's proprietary target discovery platform is based on the use of two complementary thermodynamic, computational discovery engines - ProMIS and Collective Coordinates – to predict novel targets known as Disease Specific Epitopes on the molecular surface of misfolded proteins. Using this unique precision approach, the Company is developing novel antibody therapeutics for AD, ALS and PD. ProMIS is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, with offices in Cambridge, Massachusetts. ProMIS is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol PMN, and on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol ARFXF.

Visit us at www.promisneurosciences.com or follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn

The TSX has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This information release contains certain forward-looking information. Such information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by statements herein, and therefore these statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. All forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to it as well as other factors. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified by the Company in its public securities filings, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE ProMIS Neurosciences Inc.

Harvard Scientists & Researchers now one step closer to limb & organ regeneration 

By Joshua Mansour, M.D.

For years researchers and scientists have been working on discovering the ability to regenerate organs and body limbs.  The search has spanned everywhere from biological sciences to 3D printing companies.   While several animals can achieve this such as geckos, planarian worms, jellyfish, and salamanders, what is important is determining what gives them the ability to perform such an extraordinary feat. 

Until recently, this mechanism has continued to escape researchers.   Lately, studies have been done on Hofstenia miamia, also known as the three-banded panther worm, given their remarkable ability to regenerate any part of the body within a few days of amputation.  It is commonly found in the Caribbean and other areas with warm water.  

Some studies in the past have identified certain molecular signals that the species use to regenerate, however the specific genes that regulate this response had not been known. Scientists at Harvard University now believe that a gene known as “Early Growth Response” (Egr) is thought to be the “master control gene” responsible for this regeneration. The results of the study have shown that Egr binding was strongly associated with accessibility of chromatin during regeneration and that in wounded cells, Egr was the most significant up-regulated gene.  

Post-doctoral student Andrew Gehrke of Harvard explains that the answer lies in an area of non-coding DNA that controls the gene. Initially, non-coding or ‘junk DNA’ was believed to have no role, but in recent years researchers and scientists have realized actually has a major impact.  Gehrke and his team performed several experiments to show that Egr is a master regulator of a gene network of at least 61 genes that is responsible for “whole-body” regeneration.  It works as a “DNA switch” that can “turn on and off” the network.  

Dr. Shaun Mansour, MD, a physician who received his undergraduate degree in Human Evolutionary Biology from Harvard University, further explains that “it is vital to continue understanding what the noncoding or regulatory DNA’s role is with regards to that EGR gene”.  He adds that only about 2% of our genome codes are for actual proteins while the other 98% are regulatory.  He highlights that “contrary to what may seem to make the most sense, it’s not the directly expressed aspects of our DNA that account for the greatest differences we see among species.  It is the regulatory mechanisms that govern how those proteins are expressed that make the grand majority of the distinction”.  

Humans also contain Early Growth Response transcription factors and consequently, there is potential for further discovery of how this can be translated.  The research published presents several different directions for continued investigation.   Dr. Shaun Mansour further elucidates that, unfortunately, this is an aspect of DNA that until more recently we have known little about.  However, he is optimistic that this piece plays a key role in uncovering how Egr can be tweaked or modified in humans to provide the same limb regeneration capabilities we see in other species.  

The new frontier for genomics research will be uncovering how the regulatory portion of our DNA works and how we can possibly better understand it for the benefits of patients in the future. More studies are needed to determine how these pieces play a part in a much larger system.  As more factors are being discovered, this information will be crucial in understanding how to accomplish the next step in using these discoveries for the benefit of patients.  

To put it simply, if researchers and scientists succeed in growing back arms and limbs in human beings, the Star Wars ‘The Empire Strikes Back’ film may soon look antiquated. You know, the scene where Darth Vader cuts off Luke Skywalker’s forearm with a lightsaber, but Luke gets a fancy prosthetic arm? Old news, baby; we were able to grow back arms long before that point in human history! 

About Joshua Mansour, MD:

Dr. Joshua Mansour is a board-certified hematologist/oncologist working and in the field of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and cellular immunotherapy in Stanford, California.  Recently he has managed to have over 10 recent abstracts and over 10 recent manuscripts published in esteemed journals and given countless presentations at conferences and other institutions.  He has helped design and implement clinical studies to evaluate current treatment plans, collaborated on grant proposals, and lead multi-institutional retrospective studies that have been published.

CONTACT: Jerry 

Brain Canada welcomes the Government of Canada's renewed partnership in brain research and investment in the Canada Brain Research Fund

MONTREAL, March 20, 2019 /CNW Telbec/ - The Brain Canada Foundation (Brain Canada) welcomes the Government of Canada's decision to renew its partnership with Brain Canada, as announced in the federal budget.  Finance Minister Bill Morneau's budget committed $40 million in new investments over two years in brain research, through the Canada Brain Research Fund.  

"We are pleased that the Government of Canada has continued its support of world-class brain research through Brain Canada," said Inez Jabalpurwala, President and CEO, Brain Canada. "The funds committed in the budget will support Canada's leadership position in brain research globally, and accelerate discoveries aimed at improving the lives of all Canadians."

The Canada Brain Research Fund is an innovative partnership between the Government of Canada (through Health Canada) and Brain Canada, designed to encourage Canadians to increase their support of brain research, and maximize the impact and efficiency of those investments.  The Fund supports the very best Canadian brain research, fostering collaboration across disorders, fields, disciplines, institutions, and provinces, and enhancing global linkages. 

"Researchers who are exploring the brain are our modern-day pioneers, working to conquer the final frontier of science," says Naomi Azrieli, Chair and CEO of the Azrieli Foundation and Chair of Brain Canada. "By strategically leveraging government funding with private donor and partner support, Brain Canada's model has been a powerful catalyst towards great research, providing funds that would otherwise not be available to Canadian scientists."

Since the Canada Brain Research Fund's inception, Brain Canada has raised $115 million from private donors and non-federal partners—now numbering more than 100—which has been matched by Health Canada on a 1:1 basis, with an additional $5 million for program and operating expenses.  To date, the Fund has awarded $220 million to support 255 projects across Canada involving more than 1,000 researchers at 115 institutions.  

This commitment by the federal government is an important step to ensure that Canada continues to be among the leaders in the global challenge to understand brain function and brain diseases. More than simply contributing public money to this vital cause, the matching nature of the fund is stimulating and rallying private donations and other non-governmental funders to support transformative brain research on a scale never before achieved in Canada.

As Brain Canada celebrates its 20^th anniversary in 2019, this renewed partnership with the Government of Canada enables all Canadians to look to the future in anticipation of what we will discover. 

"This is positive news for the brain research community and for the health of all Canadians. The added investment will allow us to expand our work with a range of valued partners, together with Government," said Franco J. Vaccarino, Chair of the Research Policy Committee of the Brain Canada Board. "As we build the next phase of programs, we will continue to establish our priorities through the contributions of an ecosystem of stakeholders, including researchers from different disciplines (in Canada and internationally), research institutes across the country, and the health charities that have direct outreach with patients, families and caregivers. We look forward to continuing our collaborative relationship with everyone committed to the 'One System' approach to brain research."

About Brain Canada 

Brain Canada is a national registered charity that enables and supports excellent, innovative, paradigm-changing brain research in Canada. Brain Canada's vision is to understand the brain, in health and illness, to improve lives and achieve societal impact. For two decades, Brain Canada has made the case for the brain as a single, complex system with commonalities across the range of neurological disorders, mental illnesses and addictions, brain and spinal cord injuries. Looking at the brain as one system has underscored the need for increased collaboration across disciplines and institutions, and a smarter way to invest in brain research that is focused on outcomes that will benefit patients and families. 

Brain Canada raises and leverages funds from a range of donors and partners, including individuals, corporations, foundations, research institutes, health charities, and provincial agencies. To date, Brain Canada and its supporters have invested $250 million in 300 research projects across the country. 

To find out more, visit: www.braincanada.ca

SOURCE Brain Canada Foundation

An industry-first: coaching for employees on short-term disability due to mental illness

TORONTO, March 20, 2019 /CNW/ - Acclaim Ability Management is working with Shoppers Drug Mart to offer one-on-one coaching services for employees with mental health issues, who are on short-term disability leave. Employers can choose from two offerings that aim to get employees back to work sooner, and lessen the risk of escalation to long-term disability leaves.

"This is an industry-first. We are taking employee support to the next level by bringing in pharmacists to provide practical, cost-effective services throughout the treatment journey," says Sean Bradley, president and CEO of Acclaim Ability Management.

The coaches are pharmacists, available through Shoppers Drug Mart's Clinical Health Coaching program. Employees can access their coaches virtually or by phone, and the services are available regardless of where employees fill their prescriptions. The coaches will:

• Screen employees for a number of chronic conditions, which often affect mental health, and give recommendations based on the results. 
• Evaluate medication regimens, identify drug therapy problems and recommend solutions. 
• Provide counselling on safe and appropriate use of medications, with follow-ups to assess adherence, side effects and efficacy of those medications. 
• Work with employees to set goals, create action plans and monitor progress, ultimately enabling them with tools to take control of their health with confidence.

The Clinical Health Coaching program can also include pharmacogenomic testing, a tool to predict drug response that can be especially impactful in the treatment of mental illness.

"We are excited to be providing better patient care by leveraging the expertise of our pharmacists in new ways. The coaching services provided can help improve the quality and speed of recovery, and help employees better manage their health once back at work," says Mark Rolnick, Vice President, Payor Partnerships and Plan Sponsor Innovation at Shoppers Drug Mart. He adds that the Shoppers Drug Mart Clinical Health Coaching program will eventually expand to include other conditions, such as chronic pain.

About Acclaim Ability Management – As a national health management company since 1993, Acclaim has been working with employers and their employees to provide innovative and proactive solutions to complex disability management issues. Acclaim is leading the nation with its highly trained multi-disciplinary staff and advanced technology that results in unmatched outcomes related to employee health, wellness and productivity. 

About Shoppers Drug Mart 
As one of the most recognized and trusted names in Canadian retailing Shoppers Drug Mart is the licensor of full-service retail drug stores operating under the name Shoppers Drug Mart (Pharmaprix in Québec). The Company operates almost 1,300 Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix stores across Canada. The Company also licenses or owns 47 medical clinic pharmacies operating under the name Shoppers Simply Pharmacy (Pharmaprix Simplement Santé in Québec) and provides cosmetic dermatology services at one standalone location, the Beauty Clinic by Shoppers Drug Mart. The Company owns and operates 36 corporate Shoppers Home Healthcare stores, seven Wellwise by Shoppers Drug Mart stores and an ecommerce site Wellwise.ca.  The Company also owns Shoppers Drug Mart Specialty Health Network Inc., a provider of specialty drug distribution, pharmacy and comprehensive patient support services, and MediSystem Inc., a provider of pharmaceutical products and services to long-term care facilities. Shoppers Drug Mart is a division of Loblaw Companies Limited.

SOURCE Acclaim Ability Management