Posted On: May 11, 2009
BioProspecting NB Inc. is a drug discovery company that focuses on novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of cancer and chronic pain. The drug candidates are derived from soricidin, a compound isolated from the venom of the shrew, a small mammal native to Eastern Canada. Stewart initially studied shrew venom’s paralyzing effects because other mammals’ paralyzing venom has led to the development of pain-killing drugs. However, further research demonstrated an ability to activate programmed cell death in certain types of cells, an important discovery since tests on human cancer cells show it hits the cells selectively, without attacking healthy cells or causing side effects. To assist the company’s research, the Canadian Government has invested $422,000 through ACOA’s Business Development Program and $135,000 through the National Research Council Canada Industrial Assistance Program.
More Info
