Thomas Smeenk

The key difference lies in how prices are regulated. In Canada, the government plays an active role in negotiating and capping drug prices through the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board, ensuring affordability for its citizens. In contrast, the USA operates on a market-driven system where pharmaceutical companies set prices, often influenced by factors like innovation costs and market demand. Additionally, Canada’s universal healthcare system reduces administrative overhead, further lowering costs. While the U.S. fosters innovation, Canada prioritizes affordability, highlighting two distinct approaches to balancing access and sustainability in healthcare. #Pharma #Healthcare #DrugPrices #Globyz

20

2 Comments

📢 𝗗𝗶𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄? 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝟭% 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝗱𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗦𝗔 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗮 𝗰𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰 𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲, 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗯𝗶𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗸, 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝟭,𝟮𝟮𝟯 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀! 🧬 Recently, I read that the most comprehensive fungal biobank at the University of Toronto is at risk of closing, which threatens its potential to contribute to groundbreaking drug discoveries and medical advancements. This is a bank that could lead to the next antibiotic breakthrough or treatments for diseases that challenge our healthcare systems. Meanwhile, news reports highlight that Elon Musk’s petition promises $1 million prizes to randomly chosen signers who register to vote in specific states in support of First and Second Amendment freedoms. While efforts to support constitutional freedoms are important, it’s disheartening to think that funds like these could instead secure the future of projects that directly impact human health and scientific advancement. Let’s rethink our priorities and invest more in initiatives that drive progress and improve lives. 💡 #ScienceMatters #FundingScience #ElectionSpending #HealthcareInnovation

15

Exciting to see a completely image based AI algorithm in a mobile phone app for the diagnosis of Strep Throat and other ailments go public. Light AI (based in Vancouver) just launched on the Canadian Exchange. The AI algorithm has been trained on massive data sets and the data I've seen anyway is pretty extraordinary for its ability to very accurately identify strep throat (which is their first indication). Here's a press release: https://lnkd.in/gtu2a9bD

28

Biosimilars have paved the way for innovative approaches to demonstrating therapeutic equivalence and cost-effectiveness, two concepts that are just as critical for psychedelics moving forward. Pharmacoeconomic and pharmacoequivalence studies, proven tools in the biosimilar space, can be adapted to help validate and optimize these emerging treatments. Salix Sciences, we leverage creative study designs and a decentralized approach to tackle complex questions in this evolving landscape. Stay tuned for insights on how we’re bringing lessons from biosimilars to psychedelics. #Biosimilars #Psychedelics #Pharmacoeconomics #EmpoweringInnovation #ElevatingScience #SalixSciences

3

The Pandemic was a real education to Canada, and it's reliance on technologies and companies outside this country. When push came to shove, and the world was competitng for valuable resources to test for Covid, Canada was left out in the cold (literally). We had no access to extraction technologies, and no vaccine capabilities ourselves. DMark Biosciences played a pivotal role in supplying Canada with RNA extraction instrumentation and kits. Our partners of Revvity, MolGen, and Complete Genomics provided instrumentation and kits throughout Canada, where traditional suppliers refused to sell to Canada. Now that Canada is gearing up its vaccine response for the next pandemic, @DMark is here to help again. We have partnered with L7 Informatics for over a decade providing the best Enterprise Science platform available on the planet to manage the data required to enable biomanufacturing. This webinar will help you learn how L7/ESP will speed the time to market for Drugs from development to commercialization, Reduce costs and improve operational efficiencies, and provide a single source of truth for scientific data and process management throughout the product lifecycle management. Whether your field is protein, genomics, multi-omics, research, diagnostics, development or manufacturing, L7 will provide huge value for your scientific life sciences data management.

16

3 Comments

I just attended the Next Great Big Idea conference, focused on Canadian biotech. Here are 5 highlights that got me excited: 1. Up to 50% of clinical failures result from having the WRONG formulation. Dr. Christine Allen showed how they use robotics and AI to develop a customized, optimal formulation for a drug in less than 2 weeks. They’ve gotten some incredible results. Imagine how many drugs could be rescued this way. 2. Cancer therapy (that’s also a vaccine) Imagine a therapeutic that can: - Directly target cancer cells - Deliver the specific therapy - AND stimulates the immune system to remember that cancer forever (no relapse) That’s what Julie Douchin, Ph.D. and the team at Tatum Biosciences are developing. They use super unique nanofilaments - watch this space. 3. Skin cancer analysis from an app No fancy camera needed. No waiting months for a dermatologist. No limitations on skin color. Just one powerful app from Skinopathy. 4. The end of opioids after surgery AmacaThera has developed a hydrogel that slowly releases pain killers - but only at the site of the surgery. Nowhere else. It means that the use of opioids could quickly become a thing of the past. 5. Toronto is poised to become a major biotech hub - Rapidly becoming an AI Center of Excellence - Substantial increases in manufacturing capacity - World- renowned clinical trial ecosystem Canadians, get excited. To everyone else… It’s time for a visit. You’ll be glad you did.

134

29 Comments

Drug shortages in Canada are a growing concern, affecting patient care and the healthcare system. The disruptions in global supply chains, increased demand, and manufacturing issues have all contributed to the problem. Addressing these shortages requires collaboration between pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and regulatory bodies to find sustainable solutions. As we navigate these challenges, innovation in production, better inventory management, and enhanced communication across stakeholders are essential. Together, we must ensure patients continue to have timely access to the medications they need to maintain their health and well-being. Alleviate Drug Shortages & Maintain Optimal Stock With Globyz’s Healthcare Logistics & Supply Chain Solutions. Info@globyz.com Sal@gobyz.com #Healthcare #Pharmaceuticals #DrugShortages #Canada #PatientCare

26

Aramis Biotechnologies, which is headquartered in Québec, is seeking to advance plant-based vaccines and therapeutics against influenza and other diseases, leveraging and improving upon Medicago's technology platform. Aramis Biotechnologies #Plantbase #Vaccines #therapeutics Medicago Group Blog – Healthcare Pharma, and Biotech – Analysis and Commentary – September 2024 - https://lnkd.in/e5Sz3Z-C

1

Zentek and Triera Biosciences Ltd. Receive $1.1 Million Government of Canada Contract to Test Multivalent Aptamer Technology GUELPH, ON / ACCESSWIRE / November 6, 2024 / Zentek Ltd. ("Zentek" or the "Company") (NASDAQ:ZTEK)(TSXV:ZEN), announces that its wholly-owned subsidiary Triera Biosciences Ltd. ("Triera") has received a $1.1 million Government of Canada contract to test its multivalent aptamer technology for the rapid drug discovery of therapeutics or prophylactics of highly pathogenic avian influenza ("HPAI") A(H5N1). Highlights: The Government of Canada has identified the life sciences sector as a priority of the Canadian economy and is seeking advanced medical technology solutions to address ongoing challenges Triera was awarded a $1.1 million Government of Canada R&D contract through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's ("ISED") Innovative Solutions Canada ("ISC") program:  Health Advanced And Emerging Medical Technologies Triera's multivalent aptamer technology was selected for its potential to be used as a rapid drug development platform Government of Canada testing partners include Health Emergency Readiness Canada ("HERC") within ISED, and Defence Research and Development Canada ("DRDC"), the science and technology organization of the Department of National Defence ("DND") The test will help develop a prophylactic and therapeutic for HPAI A(H5N1) following the multivalent aptamer strategy that successfully produced a SARS-CoV-2 aptamer Triera has proven the capability of the multivalent aptamer platform by developing a universal therapeutic and prophylactic that is effective against all variants of SARS-CoV-2. The contract will allow Triera to prove the capability for developing a lead candidate for HPAI A(H5N1). HERC is a new federal organization within ISED dedicated to protecting Canadians against future pandemics and delivering on Canada's life sciences and medical countermeasures readiness objectives. HERC will provide a sustained focus on advancing life sciences industrial capabilities and innovation to respond to health threats, building on significant achievements in the sector since 2020, including $2.2B that has been invested under Canada's Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences Strategy. DRDC is Canada's defence science, technology, and innovation leader. DRDC develops and delivers new technical solutions and advice to the DND, the Canadian Armed Forces, and safety and security communities. This is accomplished by working with partners in industry, academia, other government departments and international allies. The contract requires Triera to develop a lead candidate for HPAI A(H5N1) within six months of the project initiation. The lead candidate will be tested for its efficacy as a therapeutic and prophylactic along with its safety profile by the Miller Laboratory at McMaster University.

9

Exciting News for Biotech! The governments of Canada and British Columbia have made a substantial joint investment of $72.75 million into Aspect Biosystems, a leading biotech company in Vancouver. This funding aims to establish Canada's first biomanufacturing facility dedicated to producing bioprinted tissue therapeutics, a significant step forward in the field of bioprinting and therapeutic development. Aspect Biosystems, a spinout from the University of British Columbia, specialises in 3D bioprinting human tissues designed to replace, repair, or supplement functions in the body. This initiative, part of a $200-million project, is bolstered by $49 million from the Government of Canada's Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) and $23.75 million from the province of BC. It's worth noting that Canada has invested over $2.2 billion in biomanufacturing and life sciences since March 2020, underscoring the government's commitment to advancing biotech innovation. 🌍💼 CEO Tamer Mohamed expressed how this project will significantly enhance the capabilities needed to develop and manufacture new medicines for people with serious diseases. This effort continues Aspect Biosystems' collaboration with Novo Nordisk, aiming to leverage their expertise in bioprinting and cell therapy development for creating next-generation therapeutics. What are your thoughts on this investment? Share your insights below! ✅ #Biotech ✅ #Innovation ✅ #Canada

1

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a global health challenge. I support BioAlberta and Canadian Antimicrobial Innovation Coalition (CAIC) in encouraging the Government of Canada to push for AMR to be named a priority initiative for the G7 countries. #AMR #globalchallenge #globalresponse

7

A lively exploration moderated by Jill Earthy with Sid Paquette, Lindsay Smylie and Boris Wertz. Exciting discussions are underway about Canada's position in the AI and tech industries, and the challenges and opportunities we face: 🇨🇦 **Canada's AI Potential**: We're recognized as a testbed for AI technologies, thanks to our strong research academia and market size. But there's a need to transition from academia-driven research to driving AI into businesses. 🚀 **Scaling Challenges**: While our startup ecosystems are thriving, we need more scale-up opportunities. Attracting and bolstering top talent is crucial for Canadian startups to scale successfully. 💡 **Venture Capital & Climate Tech**: Traditional venture capital models may not fit the bill for climate tech due to longer return timelines and high capital expenditures. Project financing emerges as a more suitable financing mechanism for large-scale climate solutions. 📈 **Investment Trends**: AI and crypto are predicted to dominate future investments, with other sectors like clean tech facing challenges in attracting venture capital due to their long-term and high-capital nature. 🔮 **Future Predictions**: Despite short-term uncertainties, the long-term potential of AI and crypto remains significant. We expect investments to focus more on enabling technologies and specialized AI models. 🌱 **Venture Capital Landscape**: The VC landscape is evolving towards a focus on profitability and efficiency. While currently challenging to secure new capital, the market is expected to open up for growth-focused investments soon. Let's continue to innovate, attract top talent, and create sustainable financing mechanisms to position Canada as a global leader in the tech industry! #AI #Tech #CanadaInnovation #VentureCapital #ClimateTech #innovatewestconf #BC

62

5 Comments

Have you seen lately the number of CBG products hitting Canada as well as a number of West Coast US markets? Cannabigerol (CBG) is gaining traction for all the right reasons. The study below is the first trial I have seen to investigate CBG's acute effects on anxiety, stress, and mood. The trial revealed that a 20 mg dose of hemp-derived CBG significantly reduced feelings of anxiety at 20, 45, and 60 minutes post-ingestion compared to a placebo, aligning with previous survey data indicating that 51% of CBG users consume it for anxiety relief. Notably, participants also experienced memory enhancement, recalling more words after taking CBG than after the placebo—contrary to expectations based on the effects of THC. For more details, check out the link below! #CannabisResearch #CannabisIndustry #Cannabinoid #Innovation

57

2 Comments

There are <100 Canadians who have ever established a billion-dollar company. Adam Miron, LL.D (hon), MBA is one of them. His book is so inspirational to entrepreneurs as well as investors. The book teletransport you to the live scenes behind the door that you rarely see from public media. I hope Canadians enjoy the Victoria Day long weekend and some reading as well! #BillionDollarStartup #BestSellingBook #InspriationalEntrepreneur

92

6 Comments

https://lnkd.in/eYi2kspe Today we reported financial results for the second quarter ended September 30, 2024, and provided a business update: Brepocitinib (Priovant Therapeutics) 52-week data from the Phase 2 NEPTUNE study in non-infectious uveitis (NIU) showed potential best-in-indication efficacy sustained to one year; first patients enrolled in Phase 3 NIU program  IMVT-1402 (Immunovant) cleared five Investigational New Drug (IND) applications across a range of therapeutic areas and FDA divisions, including the potentially registrational trial for difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis (D2T RA) expected to initiate by March 31, 2025 Batoclimab (Immunovant) proof of concept data in Graves’ disease (GD) demonstrate potential of deeper IgG reduction with potent FcRn inhibition to transform treatment for GD patients who are not well controlled on antithyroid drugs (ATDs); initiation of potentially registrational trial to evaluate IMVT-1402 in GD expected by year end Mosliciguat (Pulmovant), a once-daily inhaled soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) activator, unveiled as new pipeline program. Mosliciguat Phase 1b data in pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients demonstrated some of the highest pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) reductions (~38%) in PH trials to date. The global Phase 2 PHocus trial for mosliciguat has been initiated in patients with pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD) Roivant Sciences continued to return capital through share repurchases with $106M purchased for the quarter, resulting in $754M cumulative share repurchases (inclusive of Sumitomo) through September 30, 2024 Dermavant transaction with Organon closed on October 28, 2024. At closing, Roivant received $184M in cash, and Organon took on all of Dermavant’s remaining outstanding long-term debt, which, inclusive of Dermavant’s senior credit facility repaid at closing, had a carrying value of $336M as of September 30, 2024. In addition, Organon will pay Roivant a $75M milestone upon FDA approval for VTAMA in atopic dermatitis, with a target action date in Q1 2025 Roivant reported consolidated cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of approximately $5.4B at September 30, 2024 #biotech #earnings #roivant #innovation

76

🌱 Imagine if the colors in your closet didn’t cost the earth. What if, instead, they came from the same natural forces that have sustained life on this planet for millennia? At Lite-1, we’re taking the best of biotechnology and rethinking how we create color—not from synthetic chemicals but from the intelligent designs of microbes. 🦠 Our microbial pigments are grown in bioreactors through a circular, sustainable, and radically safer process for people and the planet. This isn’t just an innovation; it’s a challenge to industries still stuck in synthetic dye production's outdated and destructive methods. As we see it, the future doesn’t lie in bending nature to our will but in creating symbiotic “microbial factories” that work with nature. Bold? Yes. Necessary? Absolutely. Because a more conscious, colorful world shouldn’t be a niche goal. It should be the standard. Thank you to Canada’s Clean 50 for bringing together some of Canada’s most visionary leaders in cleantech this year. We’re leaving with new insights, partnerships, and a renewed energy to take this mission forward. Join us in pioneering a new era for color. 🌍 #Lite1 #Biotech #SustainableFashion #MicrobialDyes #FutureofColor

39

4 Comments

✨ Insights from #AMP2024: Shaping the Future of Molecular Diagnostics Another incredible #AMP conference is in the books! The Chrysalis team loved reconnecting with friends, clients, and new prospects in the beautiful city of Vancouver. This year’s event sparked exciting discussions about the future of molecular testing. Here are three key takeaways: 🔬 MRD Testing: What Defines a Win? The debate revolves around: Accuracy: Base call reliability enables trust in the data. Read Depth: You can’t detect what you can’t see. Pure Economics: Balancing cost and scalability for adoption. Success will come from strategies that integrate the right balance of all three to drive both innovation and impact. 🤖 AI’s Role in Diagnostics: AI remains a game-changer: Reimbursement: Can AI streamline value-based policy alignment? Clinical Reporting: Turning complex data into actionable insights for better care. ⚖️ Regulatory Uncertainty: What’s next for the VALID Act (#ValidAct) under the new administration? Will implementation pause, or should we prepare for swift regulatory changes? It’s an exciting and dynamic time for the field. What stood out to you at #AMP24? Let’s keep the conversation going! Chrysalis Biomedical Advisors #strategy #molecular #pathology #genomics

18

Excited to share that the Natural Health Products Research Society is launching their webinar series with a complimentary session titled "Supplemented Foods: The Science Behind the Regulations in Canada." If your business is centered around supplemented foods then I highly recommend attending this webinar delivered by Health Canada Scientist Emeritus and members of the Food and Nutrition Directorate. This will be both educational and informative. Registration opens on the 16th August. Don't miss out! #NaturalHealth #Webinar #HealthCanada #Regulations #SupplementedFoods #HealthScience

4

1 Comment