{"id":360,"date":"2024-05-10T12:43:43","date_gmt":"2024-05-10T16:43:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/?page_id=360"},"modified":"2026-03-24T10:39:12","modified_gmt":"2026-03-24T14:39:12","slug":"success-story","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/achievement\/success-story\/","title":{"rendered":"Success Story"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>CQDM \u2013 An important player for economic revival in Quebec and in Canada as a whole<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Projects funded by CQDM are a source of major scientific breakthroughs, allowing for the development of innovations that provide considerable value to participating businesses and offering numerous socio-economic benefits to Quebec and Canada as a whole. You can see some examples below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-accent-blue-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-accent-blue-background-color has-background is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Epitopea: A Breakthrough in Immunotherapy Born from a Strategic Collaboration Supported by CQDM<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epitopea.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Epitopea<\/a> is a biotechnology company specializing in immunotherapy, originating from a research project supported by CQDM.<br>Based in Montr\u00e9al and Cambridge (UK), this young company is developing next-generation therapeutic vaccines designed to train the immune system to precisely recognize and target tumor-specific antigens.<br>From the very beginning, CQDM\u2019s strategic support played a pivotal role, enabling Epitopea to accelerate its scientific progress and rapidly achieve key milestones toward validating its technology. Today, the company is emerging as a promising player in the field of personalized immunotherapy.<br>Discover how this innovation came to life, and follow the key scientific and entrepreneurial milestones of a remarkable journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Epitopea-V4-3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download the success story<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-interactive=\"core\/file\" class=\"wp-block-file aligncenter has-white-background-color has-background has-link-color wp-elements-c8b0894f25fde5bb6a77da4dd65d4ac0\"><object data-wp-bind--hidden=\"!state.hasPdfPreview\" hidden class=\"wp-block-file__embed\" data=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Epitopea-V4-3.pdf\" type=\"application\/pdf\" style=\"width:100%;height:670px\" aria-label=\"Embed of Epitopea Success Story.\"><\/object><a id=\"wp-block-file--media-293fde20-bfa9-4694-b0d8-cdf7f67b7be6\" href=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Epitopea-V4-3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Epitopea Success Story<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"rounded-background-svg\">\n  \n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rounded-background alignfull\"\n>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__svg-wrapper has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n      <svg \n    xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\n    xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\"\n    width=\"1920px\" height=\"147px\" viewBox=\"0 0 1920 147\">\n    <path class=\"background-path\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"  fill=\"#fff\"\n    d=\"M-0.000,146.1000 L-0.000,46.1000 C-0.000,46.1000 7.625,11.500 576.000,3.1000 C619.500,3.1000 940.704,-0.084 991.000,1.000 C1041.296,2.084 1378.399,3.056 1459.1000,6.1000 C1541.601,10.944 1920.107,16.986 1919.1000,50.1000 C1919.893,85.014 1919.1000,146.1000 1919.1000,146.1000 L-0.000,146.1000 Z\"\/>\n    <\/svg>\n   <\/div>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__inner has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n    \n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A collaboration to revolutionize lung cancer screening in Quebec<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>CQDM is proud to have presented the 2025 RSRI Innovation Award at the ADRIQ Innovation Awards Gala to Philippe Joubert, Yohan Boss\u00e9, Solutions de diagnostic BioMark, and their valued collaborators! They are being recognized for a collaborative project that is transforming lung cancer screening in Quebec. <br>Supported by CQDM and MEIE, this $4.42M project is the result of an exemplary collaboration between IUCPQ-UL (Philippe Joubert, Yohan Boss\u00e9, and their collaborators), BioMark Diagnostic Solutions, the IUCPQ Foundation, AstraZeneca, and Pfizer.<br><br>This collaborative R&amp;D project, with a total value of $4.42M, was made possible thanks to funding from the Quebec government, administered by CQDM. It brings together numerous committed partners: IUCPQ-UL, Solutions de diagnostic BioMark, AstraZeneca Canada, Pfizer Canada, and the IUCPQ Foundation. The project has achieved a simpler, faster, more affordable, and less invasive lung cancer screening test, thanks to a metabolomics-based approach.<br><br>The project has also created numerous jobs, trained highly qualified scientific talent, and strengthened expertise in cutting-edge fields. It has stimulated the growth of BioMark, which secured an additional $4.85M in investments, and enabled the research team to obtain $1.2M in grants, while fostering strategic synergies between the public and private sectors.<br><br>Discover the full story of this success and the opportunities it opens for the health of Quebecers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/A-collaboration-to-revolutionize-EN-Final-Version.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download the success story<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"791\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1-1-791x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7265\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1-1-791x1024.png 791w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1-1-232x300.png 232w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1-1-768x994.png 768w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1-1-1187x1536.png 1187w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1-1.png 1545w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 791px) 100vw, 791px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"791\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/2-791x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7267\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/2-791x1024.png 791w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/2-232x300.png 232w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/2-768x994.png 768w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/2-1187x1536.png 1187w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/2.png 1545w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 791px) 100vw, 791px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"791\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/3-791x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7269\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/3-791x1024.png 791w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/3-232x300.png 232w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/3-768x994.png 768w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/3-1187x1536.png 1187w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/3.png 1545w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 791px) 100vw, 791px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This initiative perfectly illustrates how collaborative research can translate into tangible benefits for patients and positions Quebec as a global leader in health innovation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>\u201cThis project clearly shows the benefits of collaborative research. Thanks to the efforts of all these partners, a new tool for screening lung cancer will soon be accessible to Quebecers. To promote this kind of scientific progress, we are funding partners such as sector-based industrial research clusters\u2014to which CQDM belongs. It contributes to Qu\u00e9bec\u2019s economic growth and the advancement of our society by connecting players in the life sciences industry\u2019s innovation cycle.\u201d<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Christine&nbsp;Fr\u00e9chette, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>\u201cAstraZeneca Canada is proud of its partnership with CQDM to advance earlier, more accurate lung cancer screening and improve patient care in Quebec and beyond\u201d <\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Marc Zarenda, Therapeutic Area Lead (Lung Oncology), AstraZeneca Canada<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>\u201cIt is a pleasure and an honour to see that the support from Pfizer and others has helped develop a practical and innovative screening tool for a disease as devastating as lung cancer. This is a powerful example of science and technology coming together to address patient needs.&#8221;&nbsp;<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Vratislav Hadrava,Vice President &amp; Medical Director, Pfizer&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n   <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Morphocell Technologies: A Montreal-based startup specializing in regenerative medicine to revolutionize the treatment of liver diseases.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Succes story : Morphocell Technologies\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/AM20DRm77c4?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Co-founded in 2018 by Dr. Massimiliano Paganelli, Morphocell Technologies is a young Montreal-based startup focused on developing a stem cell-based technology for liver cell regeneration: &#8220;ReLiver.&#8221; This technology has the potential to treat acute liver failure and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from this condition. As a pioneer in its field, the technology aims to eliminate the need for liver tissue transplants and the associated side effects, such as lifelong immunosuppressive therapy and intensive medical follow-ups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2021, Morphocell Technologies received strategic and financial support totaling $979,200 from pharmaceutical company Takeda, Stem Cell Network, and CQDM through the Quantum Leap program. This early-stage funding enabled Morphocell to demonstrate proof of concept in animal models, significantly reducing risk and paving the way for more advanced research. The positive results from this proof of concept attracted additional private funding totaling over $40 million USD, providing the resources needed to continue developing the technology and support Morphocell&#8217;s growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thanks to this support, Morphocell Technologies moved out of its initial incubation space at CHU Ste-Justine \u2014 where co-founders Dr. Massimiliano Paganelli and Dr. Claudia Raggi launched the company \u2014 and into its own facilities in Montreal, Toronto, and Boston. Today, the company operates in 13,000 square feet of laboratory and office space and employs a team of 35 highly qualified professionals. These accomplishments reflect an impressive 240% growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dr. Paganelli attributes much of the company&#8217;s success to the development of a technology specifically designed from the outset to meet real clinical needs, as well as to privileged access to a mentor from the pharmaceutical industry \u2014 two major assets that have helped Morphocell establish itself as a thriving biotech firm in Quebec. The company continues its research efforts to scale up manufacturing capacity in preparation for a clinical trial application in 2026 and the treatment of its first patient in 2027. Morphocell Technologies stands as an outstanding example of a fast-growing Quebec startup, actively contributing to the province\u2019s health and economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"307\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Infolettre-600-x-200-mm-14-1024x307.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6032\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Infolettre-600-x-200-mm-14-1024x307.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Infolettre-600-x-200-mm-14-300x90.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Infolettre-600-x-200-mm-14-768x230.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Infolettre-600-x-200-mm-14-1536x461.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Infolettre-600-x-200-mm-14-2048x614.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1743540079885-1-1024x576.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6034\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1743540079885-1-1024x576.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1743540079885-1-300x169.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1743540079885-1-768x432.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1743540079885-1-1536x864.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/1743540079885-1.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Steven Laplante, Mathieu Paquette, Massimiliano Paganelli, Ministre Christopher Skeete, Caleb Seward and Phyla Kay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"rounded-background-svg\">\n  \n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rounded-background alignfull\"\n>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__svg-wrapper has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n      <svg \n    xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\n    xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\"\n    width=\"1920px\" height=\"147px\" viewBox=\"0 0 1920 147\">\n    <path class=\"background-path\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"  fill=\"#fff\"\n    d=\"M-0.000,146.1000 L-0.000,46.1000 C-0.000,46.1000 7.625,11.500 576.000,3.1000 C619.500,3.1000 940.704,-0.084 991.000,1.000 C1041.296,2.084 1378.399,3.056 1459.1000,6.1000 C1541.601,10.944 1920.107,16.986 1919.1000,50.1000 C1919.893,85.014 1919.1000,146.1000 1919.1000,146.1000 L-0.000,146.1000 Z\"\/>\n    <\/svg>\n   <\/div>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__inner has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n    \n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Perceiv AI: The Startup Revolutionizing Disease Progression Prediction to Accelerate New Therapies<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Founded in 2018 by Christian Dansereau, Perceiv AI is a Quebec-based startup headquartered in Montreal. The company has developed an innovative prognostic platform, Foresight, which leverages automatic learning algorithms to analyze multimodal patient data, including clinical imaging, molecular, clinical, and genetic data. This platform identifies high-risk patient subpopulations likely to experience disease progression. By better understanding these at-risk groups, Foresight offers multiple applications, such as predicting treatment responses, identifying multimodal biomarkers of disease progression, and pinpointing patient subpopulations ideal for clinical trials. Perceiv AI\u2019s groundbreaking approach has the potential to transform drug development and patient care delivery. Discover the history of Perceiv AI and its Foresight platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"307\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Infolettres-600-x-200-mm-6-1024x307.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5442\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Infolettres-600-x-200-mm-6-1024x307.png 1024w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Infolettres-600-x-200-mm-6-300x90.png 300w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Infolettres-600-x-200-mm-6-768x230.png 768w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Infolettres-600-x-200-mm-6-1536x461.png 1536w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Infolettres-600-x-200-mm-6-2048x614.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group block-accordions-group accordion-container\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordion-item accordion ac\" id=\"learn-more-about-this-story\"><div class=\"accordion__accordion\"><button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\"><h2 class=\"accordion__header__title\">Learn more about this story<\/h2><span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\"><span class=\"plus\"><\/span><\/span><\/button><div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\" role=\"region\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">From Concept to Validation: Building an AI-Powered Platform to Predict Disease Progression<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>CQDM played a pivotal role in Perceiv AI\u2019s early success. Through a research project supported by the CQDM, in partnership with Dalcor Pharmaceuticals Canada and Drs. Jean-Claude Tardif and Marie-Pierre Dub\u00e9 of the Montreal Heart Institute, the company developed and validated its deep learning algorithm, culminating in the Foresight platform (<a href=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/news-and-events\/cqdm-funds-the-development-of-a-novel-artificial-intelligence-tool-for-cardiovascular-clinical-trials\/\">discover the project<\/a>). Using retrospective multimodal data from patient cohorts with cardiovascular events, Perceiv AI demonstrated its ability to predict the risk of recurrent cardiovascular incidents with significantly better performance than existing tools. Notably, the platform reduced the required sample size by 42% without compromising statistical power, a breakthrough that mitigates clinical trial risks and facilitates the development of new drugs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cCQDM\u2019s funding was a true catalyst for Perceiv AI\u2019s development from the very beginning\u201d Christian Dansereau, Ph.D.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>In a bid to extend the use of the platform to other medical conditions that could benefit from it, Perceiv AI has turned its attention to Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. The performance of Foresight and its Alzheimer-specific prognostic tool, AD-Px\u2122, which predicts clinical outcomes at various stages of the disease, was tested and validated using data from phase 3 retrospective clinical studies and extensive longitudinal studies. This progress has positioned the company to focus on prospective clinical trials, enhancing the platform\u2019s capabilities and increasing the success rate of these studies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Building on its initial success, Perceiv AI participated in a second CQDM project, joining <a href=\"https:\/\/essaiscliniquesvirtuels.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">a research consortium<\/a>, led by Dr. Jean-Claude Tardif and the Montreal Heart Institute, with the goal of developing digital platforms and tools for conducting high quality, low cost virtual clinical trials. As part of this initiative, the company implemented an information security management system compliant with international standards, earning ISO 27001 certification. This milestone strengthens patient data protection and marks a crucial step toward the platform\u2019s commercialization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Collaborations: a Strategic Lever to Propel Company Growth and Attract the Interest of Pharmaceutical Giants.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Collaborations have been a cornerstone of Perceiv AI\u2019s growth. From collaborative R&amp;D projects funded by CQDM, uniting academic and industry experts, to partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies like Merck and Johnson &amp; Johnson, these alliances have been instrumental. Selected from over 150 applicants, Perceiv AI joined the inaugural cohort of the Merck Digital Sciences Studio (MDSS) and, in June 2023, became a resident at Johnson &amp; Johnson\u2019s prestigious JLABS. The company has also forged strategic partnerships, such as its collaboration with Alleo Labs, to support an Alzheimer\u2019s disease clinical trial. These partnerships bring cutting-edge neuroscience and business development expertise, boosting Perceiv AI\u2019s growth potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cWe have established strong relationships with most major pharmaceutical companies developing drugs in our field. These collaborations strengthen our mission to revolutionize clinical trials. We plan to support our first innovative clinical trial by 2025, taking a significant step toward transforming the future of clinical trials.\u201d Christian Dansereau, Ph.D.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Thriving Company on the Path to Expansion<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Perceiv AI recently announced the successful closure of a funding round backed by strategic investors from Canada and the United States. This achievement reflects growing international interest in its innovative technology. The funding has enabled Perceiv AI to reach a significant milestone: launching its Foresight platform online and training its first external users. This strategic step towards commercialization is further strengthened by the addition of Simona Skerjanec to its board of directors. With nearly 30 years of international experience in drug development and commercialization, particularly in neuroscience, her expertise is invaluable in accelerating Perceiv AI\u2019s mission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Perceiv AI\u2019s platform has the potential to redefine drug development and improve early diagnosis, enabling timely interventions. Unlike other platforms currently available or under development, Foresight stands out for its versatility and capacity to address diverse biopharmaceutical needs. The company is preparing to apply to the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for the approval of AD-Px\u2122 as a prognostic tool to aid in the early diagnosis of Alzheimer\u2019s disease in clinical settings. Perceiv AI&#8217;s platform is highly versatile and has considerable potential to meet the diverse needs of the biopharmaceutical industry. The future looks bright for Perceiv AI. <a href=\"https:\/\/en.perceiv.ai\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to find out more about Perceiv AI.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cWith a solid foundation in place, we are now ready to diversify into other therapeutic areas and build a robust network of partners. This will ultimately enable us to predict real-world treatment responses and identify the best therapy for each patient\u2019s unique profile.\u201d Christian Dansereau, Ph.D.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n   <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Creation of an innovative platform to develop the therapies of tomorrow<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>How can innovative approaches developed in Quebec be used to design new targeted treatments applicable to a wide range of therapeutic indications? This is the challenge that awaited Professor Michel Bouvier and his numerous partners from seven university and hospital centers in the province as part of the large-scale initiative launched by the Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC) in 2018.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"437\" height=\"230\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Cancers-et-maladies-cardiovasculaires-des-therapies-novatrices-et-prometteuses.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-555\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Cancers-et-maladies-cardiovasculaires-des-therapies-novatrices-et-prometteuses.png 437w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Cancers-et-maladies-cardiovasculaires-des-therapies-novatrices-et-prometteuses-300x158.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 437px) 100vw, 437px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group block-accordions-group accordion-container\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordion-item accordion ac\" id=\"learn-more-about-this-story\"><div class=\"accordion__accordion\"><button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\"><p class=\"accordion__header__title\">Learn more about this story<\/p><span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\"><span class=\"plus\"><\/span><\/span><\/button><div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\" role=\"region\">\n\n<p>The success of this $20M structuring project, supported by the Minist\u00e8re de l\u2019\u00c9conomie, de l\u2019Innovation et de l\u2019\u00c9nergie (MEIE) through the Fonds d\u2019acc\u00e9l\u00e9ration en sant\u00e9 (FACS) included in the 2017-2027 Quebec Life Sciences Strategy, was based on:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"is-style-default wp-block-list\">\n\n<li>The complementary expertise and creativity of its co-researchers affiliated with l\u2019IRIC, the Montreal University Hospital Center, the CHU de Qu\u00e9bec-Universit\u00e9 Laval, the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, l\u2019Universit\u00e9 de Sherbrooke, l\u2019Universit\u00e9 de Montr\u00e9al (MILA) and the Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital,<\/li>\n\n\n<li>The sharing of state-of-the-art technological platforms,<\/li>\n\n\n<li>The financial and scientific contribution of the biopharmaceutical partner Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) and,<\/li>\n\n\n<li>The know-how of IRIC\u2019s Drug Discovery Unit led by Professor Anne Marinier.<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<p>The aim of the project was to set up a structuring program for a portfolio of projects for the development of innovative therapies to treat cancers and cardiovascular diseases.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"rounded-background-svg\">\n  \n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rounded-background alignfull\"\n>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__svg-wrapper has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n      <svg \n    xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\n    xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\"\n    width=\"1920px\" height=\"147px\" viewBox=\"0 0 1920 147\">\n    <path class=\"background-path\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"  fill=\"#fff\"\n    d=\"M-0.000,146.1000 L-0.000,46.1000 C-0.000,46.1000 7.625,11.500 576.000,3.1000 C619.500,3.1000 940.704,-0.084 991.000,1.000 C1041.296,2.084 1378.399,3.056 1459.1000,6.1000 C1541.601,10.944 1920.107,16.986 1919.1000,50.1000 C1919.893,85.014 1919.1000,146.1000 1919.1000,146.1000 L-0.000,146.1000 Z\"\/>\n    <\/svg>\n   <\/div>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__inner has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n    \n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EPITOPEA &#8211; A new weapon against cancer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The story of&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.epitopea.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Epitopea<\/a>&nbsp;achieved something exceptional: this innovation-driven start-up has quickly raised an impressive amount of seed fund to accelerate its impact in the fight against cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>CQDM, Oncopole and the Cancer Research Society are proud to have supported the innovative research work conducted by Dr. Claude Perreault and his collaborators, which allowed the development of an internationally competitive approach and contributed to the creation of Epitopea Company, thereby reducing the investment risk required for its start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"455\" height=\"239\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Epitopea.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-637\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Epitopea.png 455w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Epitopea-300x158.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 455px) 100vw, 455px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group block-accordions-group accordion-container\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordion-item accordion ac\" id=\"learn-more-about-this-story\"><div class=\"accordion__accordion\"><button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\"><p class=\"accordion__header__title\">Learn more about this story<\/p><span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\"><span class=\"plus\"><\/span><\/span><\/button><div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\" role=\"region\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Distinguishing Healthy Cells from Tumor Cells \u2013 The Innovative Approach of the Project Led by Dr. Claude Perreault<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<p>Cancer spreads when the immune system is unable to effectively eliminate abnormal cells. However, the immune system has the ability to fight tumor cells when it recognizes certain tumor-specific antigens (TSAs) on their surface that can activate it. So, which TSAs are best recognized by the immune system? Are they shared by individuals having the same cancer? This is what Dr. Claude Perreault (IRIC) and his collaborators answered:<\/p>\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n\n<p>\u201c<em>My team has developed a unique and global approach that includes two components. The first is to identify TSAs more efficiently and accurately. The second is the development of new in vitro tests that can predict the immune response in vivo. Combined, these two components allow to select the TSAs that are most likely to activate the immune system<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n<p>The approach of the multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Perreault was used to identify promising TSAs for acute myeloid and acute lymphoid leukemias as part of the CQDM-supported project. In parallel, other works carried out by the team have also shown encouraging results in breast and ovarian tumors. This Qu\u00e9bec innovation is therefore not only effective for specific tumor types, but also applicable to a broad spectrum of difficult-to-treat cancers.<\/p>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>From Research Project to Company Creation<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<p>Rather unusual, the results very quickly led to the valorization of the intellectual property developed by the Universit\u00e9 de Montr\u00e9al and to the creation of Epitopea Company, with the support of IRICoR. The Company\u2019s mission is to make better cancer treatments available by marketing TSA-based vaccines against different types of tumors. This ability to rapidly transfer knowledge and approach is primarily due to the highly innovative nature of the research, which was immediately recognized by several venture capitalists.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>As Steven Klein, Epitopea\u2019s Chief Business Officer, states,<\/p>\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n\n<p>\u201c<em>Having licenses under one company, through the creation of Epitopea, facilitates opportunities for collaboration with pharmaceutical companies. Depending on the projects, we have the option of developing elements in-house or partnering with pharmaceutical companies in a collaborative research approach<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Major Investments to Create a Significant Impact<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<p>Since its creation in the spring of 2022, the start-up has raised $14M USD in seed funds, a significant funding for the Company. Strongly backed by 4 groups of investors from Qu\u00e9bec and elsewhere, the team has given itself the means to achieve its ambitions.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>Thanks to the advances that will be conducted by Epitopea, it will be possible to target several TSAs in the same treatment for a given type of cancer, which will optimize and simplify treatment for patients. Other positive economic and social benefits are expected as the Company intends to continue to expand the range of immunotherapies developed through new discoveries made by Qu\u00e9bec researchers.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n   <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">THERATECHNOLOGIES&#8217; SUCCESS<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Theratechnologies is a publicly traded Qu\u00e9bec biopharmaceutical company that was founded in 1993. It successfully commercialized innovative treatments for HIV and is currently developing a treatment for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The company recently secured funding from CQDM, among others, in order to expand its innovative activities and accelerate the achievement of scientific milestones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After focusing on HIV therapies for many years, Theratechnologies ventured into the cancer research sector by acquiring Katana Biopharma in 2019. Based in Montreal, Katana Biopharma is a university spin-off founded by UQAM Professor Borhane Annabi, a leading expert in the development of innovative cancer technologies who built the targeted drug screening oncology platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"388\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thertechnologies-1024x388.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-641\" style=\"width:150px\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thertechnologies-1024x388.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thertechnologies-300x114.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thertechnologies-768x291.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thertechnologies.jpg 1453w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group block-accordions-group accordion-container\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordion-item accordion ac\" id=\"learn-more-about-this-story\"><div class=\"accordion__accordion\"><button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\"><p class=\"accordion__header__title\">Learn more about this story<\/p><span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\"><span class=\"plus\"><\/span><\/span><\/button><div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\" role=\"region\">\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"CQDM &amp; Theratechnologies - Channeling the power of collaborative research to fight cancer\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/qAnOw2nhwVE?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n<p>Theratechnologies is currently working with Professort Annabi\u2019s lab to test new therapeutic approaches targeting sortilin-expressing cancers. This project is receiving financial support from CQDM and the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS). Their approach focuses specifically on cancer cells expressing the sortilin receptor, a hallmark of many types of cancer. Their investigational compound, TH1902, is conjugated to a drug and delivers its payload to tumors by using sortilin as a gateway to penetrate cancer cells. This mechanism could improve the efficacy of anticancer treatments, while minimizing side effects in patients.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>Their research recently confirmed&nbsp;<em>in vivo<\/em>&nbsp;efficacy of TH1902 against several types of cancers including ovarian, colon, pancreatic, endometrial, and skin cancer, as well as triple-negative breast cancer. The results to date a very promising. Specifically, sortilin-expressing cancers, including triple-negative breast cancer, are more difficult to treat and are associated with a higher risk of relapse.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>As part of their collaboration, Theratechnologies and Professor Annabi pooled their expertise and created a unique approach to oncology treatments. The funds from CQDM and CCS allowed them to expand the scope of their research activities, to explore and develop opportunities which they might not otherwise have considered. Their collective efforts accelerated the development process from early-stage research to clinical testing in cancer patients. These key milestones foster the potential development and future growth of the company.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"rounded-background-svg\">\n  \n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rounded-background alignfull\"\n>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__svg-wrapper has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n      <svg \n    xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\n    xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\"\n    width=\"1920px\" height=\"147px\" viewBox=\"0 0 1920 147\">\n    <path class=\"background-path\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"  fill=\"#fff\"\n    d=\"M-0.000,146.1000 L-0.000,46.1000 C-0.000,46.1000 7.625,11.500 576.000,3.1000 C619.500,3.1000 940.704,-0.084 991.000,1.000 C1041.296,2.084 1378.399,3.056 1459.1000,6.1000 C1541.601,10.944 1920.107,16.986 1919.1000,50.1000 C1919.893,85.014 1919.1000,146.1000 1919.1000,146.1000 L-0.000,146.1000 Z\"\/>\n    <\/svg>\n   <\/div>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__inner has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n    \n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">OPTINA DIAGNOSTICS&#8217;SUCCESS &#8211; Details<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Alzheimer\u2019s disease affects more than 55 million people worldwide. Even today, diagnosis occurs at an advanced stage of the disease, most often on the basis of observable clinical manifestations, when it is late to intervene.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Would it be possible to detect the disease earlier using the eye? That was the hypothesis posed by McGill University clinical professor Jean-Paul Soucy and the startup company Optina Diagnostics in 2015.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It was at this critical phase in the development of Optina\u2019s innovation that CQDM intervened. With the help of its public and private partners, including the Brain Canada Foundation and the Ontario Brain Institute, the organization granted $1.5 million in funding to enable the company to establish clinical proof of concept.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"478\" height=\"294\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/OPTINA-DIAGNOSTICS-\u2013-DETECTER-LES-MALADIES-EN-UTILISANT-LOEIL.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-639\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/OPTINA-DIAGNOSTICS-\u2013-DETECTER-LES-MALADIES-EN-UTILISANT-LOEIL.png 478w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/OPTINA-DIAGNOSTICS-\u2013-DETECTER-LES-MALADIES-EN-UTILISANT-LOEIL-300x185.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 478px) 100vw, 478px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group block-accordions-group accordion-container\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordion-item accordion ac\" id=\"learn-more-about-this-story\"><div class=\"accordion__accordion\"><button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\"><p class=\"accordion__header__title\">Learn more about this story<\/p><span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\"><span class=\"plus\"><\/span><\/span><\/button><div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\" role=\"region\">\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>From Innovation to Therapeutic Application<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<p>The hyperspectral camera technology used by the Quebec company, which was initially used for stargazing and industrial applications, had immense potential in the human health sector. At the time and still today, there are cameras to probe the back of the eye, but none offer this level of precision in color resolution.<\/p>\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n\n<p>\u201c<em>Optina\u2019s technology reveals 92 specific color channels compared to the 3 channels offered by conventional retinal cameras, which provides an unparalleled wealth of data. It is then possible to see things that were previously unnoticed<\/em>,\u201d adds Jean-Philippe Sylvestre, Vice-President of Technology at the start-up.<\/p>\n\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n<p>This wealth of data opens the way, in the long term, to the development of a whole series of complementary tests and diagnostic tools supported by artificial intelligence for a range of other diseases that manifest themselves in the eye.<\/p>\n\n\n<p><strong>The Leverage Effect of CQDM Funding<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<p>Once clinical proof of concept was attained, the company was in an excellent position to raise a series of additional financings: $4M round led by Zoic Capital in 2018, $25.8M round led by DigitalDx Ventures in 2021 and finally, $3.0M led by the Alzheimer\u2019s Drug Discovery Foundation in early 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n\n<p>\u201c<em>The support we received from CQDM also allowed us to structure the story to raise additional funding: what clinical value do we bring to the patient and his doctor? What medical needs do we address, beyond the scientific innovation aspect?<\/em>\u201d adds Marie-Claude Marchand, Vice President of Marketing and Business Development.<\/p>\n\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n<p>Thanks to this extra support, the company was able to carry on developing its technology and strengthen its team.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>In addition to accelerating the development of an innovative Quebec technology, this project helped build a whole ecosystem of relationships: \u201c<em>We gained credibility through contact with experts like Dr. Jean-Paul Soucy, Dr. Sandra Black and Prof. Lesage<\/em>,\u201d explains Mr. Lapointe.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>The benefits for the company went beyond the financial aspect: the public-private collaboration opened doors for the Optina Diagnostics team in terms of access to patients and for the realization of other projects.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, the benefits for the organization will translate into benefits for people with Alzheimer\u2019s disease and their loved ones: by using the eye as a window into the brain to detect the status of biomarkers associated with Alzheimer\u2019s, the Optina team intends to offer an accessible, non-invasive and reliable diagnostic alternative at an early stage. A potential revolution that would also pave the way for the discovery of innovative treatments by supporting more targeted clinical studies.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n   <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">NMX RESEARCH AND SOLUTIONS &#8211; Details<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A Collaboration Between INRS and NMX Research and Solutions that Accelerates Drug Discovery<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although Fragment-Based Lead Discovery (FBLD) is one of the most promising strategies for discovering future medical compounds, there are still until today barriers that discourage industry from pursuing this approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Redefining Drug Discovery and Chemical Optimization Strategies<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In collaboration with Sacha Larda (NMX Research and Solutions) and Michael Serrano-Wu (3&nbsp;Point Bio), Professor Steven Laplante launched a project to find solutions to these problematic situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Together, the researchers have enhanced a drug discovery platform to identify drug candidates from molecular fragments. Each step of the FBLD has been reviewed and improved through redefining the fundamental strategies used in industry as well as in the academic world for the discovery and optimization of new therapeutic molecules. Compared to other frequently used drug discovery methods, the platform that was developed within the framework of this project allows to significantly reduce the identification of false positives, thus allowing to decrease costs by more than 30% compared to conventional methods. Research can therefore be focused on the development of candidates with the best therapeutic potential, while avoiding considerable waste of time and resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>More than 20 scientific articles and two patent applications, one submitted by Professor Laplante and the other by NMX, also confirm the success of the initiative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"497\" height=\"261\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/NMX-research.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-647\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/NMX-research.png 497w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/NMX-research-300x158.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 497px) 100vw, 497px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"rounded-background-svg\">\n  \n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rounded-background alignfull\"\n>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__svg-wrapper has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n      <svg \n    xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\n    xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\"\n    width=\"1920px\" height=\"147px\" viewBox=\"0 0 1920 147\">\n    <path class=\"background-path\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"  fill=\"#fff\"\n    d=\"M-0.000,146.1000 L-0.000,46.1000 C-0.000,46.1000 7.625,11.500 576.000,3.1000 C619.500,3.1000 940.704,-0.084 991.000,1.000 C1041.296,2.084 1378.399,3.056 1459.1000,6.1000 C1541.601,10.944 1920.107,16.986 1919.1000,50.1000 C1919.893,85.014 1919.1000,146.1000 1919.1000,146.1000 L-0.000,146.1000 Z\"\/>\n    <\/svg>\n   <\/div>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__inner has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n    \n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FELDAN &#8211; Details<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Feldan Therapeutics has developed a drug delivery system called the \u201cFeldan Shuttle\u201d designed for the targeted delivery of therapeutic agents into cells to treat, prevent or cure many diseases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While discussing opportunities with experts from the pharmaceutical community through CQDM, Feldan Therapeutics considered a bold R&amp;D project proposed by one of them. This high-risk high-reward exploratory research project was made possible with funding from CQDM and five pharmas that were interested in the potential impacts of the study. In fact, the outcomes of the project have generated significant interest from the pharmaceutical industry, as such a drug delivery system could improve the effectiveness of their existing treatments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With the sound advice offered by pharmaceutical industry KOLs as part of the mentoring program, companies aligned their innovations with worldwide market needs, thereby positioning their technology early in the process with leading pharmaceutical stakeholders. The relationships and partnerships established with pharmas build value for companies as they establish numerous lucrative collaborations, for example by adapting a given technology to the specific needs of the pharmaceutical industry. In turn, this promotes future collaborations that feed the growth of companies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"425\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Feldan-Therapeutics-1024x425.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-644\" style=\"width:150px\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Feldan-Therapeutics-1024x425.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Feldan-Therapeutics-300x125.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Feldan-Therapeutics-768x319.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Feldan-Therapeutics.jpg 1120w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group block-accordions-group accordion-container\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordion-item accordion ac\" id=\"learn-more-about-this-story\"><div class=\"accordion__accordion\"><button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\"><h2 class=\"accordion__header__title\">Learn more about this story<\/h2><span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\"><span class=\"plus\"><\/span><\/span><\/button><div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\" role=\"region\">\n<p><strong>Tangible Economic Benefits for the Industry<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The methods developed by Professor Laplante and his colleagues have been added to the service offering of NMX Research and Solutions, allowing it to increase its competitiveness. The platform now lets several companies innovate by accelerating drug discovery. This service is currently used by more than 12&nbsp;Canadian companies, including the Montreal-based Repare Therapeutics, which has been using NMX\u2019s contract research services since 2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Simultaneously, NMX\u2019s revenues have hiked by 200% between 2017 and 2021 with an equivalent of 20-30% growth per year. In a similar timeframe, it also grew from 8&nbsp;employees in 2018 to 15 in 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, the project also had positive results for partner 3 Point Bio, which used the new FBLD strategies in its research program to discover candidate fragments and compounds for multiple targets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A Bridge Between the Industry and Academic Worlds<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another benefit resulting from this collaborative project is the training of highly qualified and specialized staff. Indeed, throughout the project, several students were trained and developed highly sought-after skills. In fact, at least eight of them were hired by companies at the end of their studies, thus meeting the industry\u2019s need for qualified employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Important Financial Support for Translational Research<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, Professor Steven Laplante\u2019s project could not have come into being without the financial involvement of CQDM through the SynergiQc program, the contribution of the SMEs NMX Research and Solutions and 3&nbsp;Point Bio, the research community through the INRS and the support of Mitacs and the Minist\u00e8re de l\u2019\u00c9conomie et de l\u2019Innovation.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n   <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group block-accordions-group accordion-container\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordion-item accordion ac\" id=\"\"><div class=\"accordion__accordion\"><button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\"><h2 class=\"accordion__header__title\"><\/h2><span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\"><span class=\"plus\"><\/span><\/span><\/button><div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\" role=\"region\"><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A new world-class hub for clinical research and precision medicine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Reaching nearly $17.5 million, this initiative launched as part of the first FACS program call for proposals is supported by the Ministry of Economy and Innovation (MEI) with a $6.45 million grant and is co-funded by private partners, including Quebec-based DalCor Pharmaceuticals, world-class biopharmas AstraZeneca, Bayer Inc. et Pharmascience as well as the Montreal Heart Institute Foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Headed by Jean-Claude Tardif, Director of the Research Centre at the Montreal Heart Institute, this initiative builds on a network of nearly 100 multidisciplinary experts from industry and academia, as well as a multi-centre network of Quebec hospitals. Its goal is to create a world-class hub for clinical research and precision medicine in the cardiovascular field, and to subsequently broaden its scope to other disciplines such as oncology and neurology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group block-accordions-group accordion-container\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordion-item accordion ac\" id=\"learn-more-about-this-story\"><div class=\"accordion__accordion\"><button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\"><p class=\"accordion__header__title\">Learn more about this story<\/p><span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\"><span class=\"plus\"><\/span><\/span><\/button><div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\" role=\"region\">\n\n<p>The project has delivered several innovative technologies since its launch in 2018. Among them is a federated data platform integrating results from more than 90 clinical trials, which includes genomic and clinical data from 675,000 patients. It also produced artificial intelligence-based (AI) analytical and statistical tools designed to support the development of clinical trials in precision medicine by making it possible to confirm the potential of therapeutic targets, predict their outcome, and target the groups of individuals most likely to benefit from a treatment, including:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"is-style-checkmark wp-block-list\">\n\n<li>ExPheWas: A bioinformatics tool that provides access to over 24 million test results to conduct an association study of genes and clinical indicators, as well as tools for interpreting the results.<\/li>\n\n\n<li>PheWeb: A web-based tool that quickly displays genome-wide association results queried from the platform datasets.<\/li>\n\n\n<li>An artificial intelligence with a neural network: A genomics discovery tool that is more sensitive than tests using classical statistics.<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<p>These cutting-edge tools, now available to the scientific community at large, are already drawing interest from academic groups and the private sector that are now using similar tools to revisit data from large population-based clinical studies to optimize the time and resources invested in drug discovery programs.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>Attracted by the expertise and innovations developed by the network, world-class pharmaceutical groups are now choosing to conduct their clinical studies in Quebec. More than $20.5 million in additional public and private funding has been invested since the project was initiated and four new clinical trials in precision medicine have been launched. The COLCOT (COLchicine Cardiovascular Outcomes Trial) study, coordinated by the Montreal Health Innovations Coordinating Center (MHICC) exemplifies this success by demonstrating the benefits of colchicine in patients with myocardial infarction. In August 2021, colchicine was approved by Health Canada for the treatment of patients with existing coronary heart disease. The drug has since been included in the guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. This achievement demonstrates the successful repurposing of a readily available and inexpensive generic drug previously prescribed for the treatment of gout and pericarditis.<\/p>\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n\n<p>According to Dr. Jean-Claude Tardif, \u201cThis initiative allowed our team of academic and commercial partners to test personalized treatments, thereby adding a repurposed drug to the treatment options for cardiovascular disease. By finding new therapeutic uses for well-known drugs, we can improve the health of Canadians in a timely and cost-effective manner. The cardiovascular indication for colchicine that has been approved by Health Canada will foster changes in medical care, help patients with coronary heart disease and save costs for the health care system. The COLCOT academic clinical study could not have been accomplished without the financial support of the Government of Quebec\u2019s FPQIS and FACS programs. We are very proud of this remarkable achievement resulting from the efforts of Quebec researchers, institutions and funders.\u201d<\/p>\n\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n<p>Pharmacogenomic studies, led by Professor Marie-Pierre Dub\u00e9, Director of the Pharmacogenomics Center of Universit\u00e9 de Montr\u00e9al, are underway as part of the FACS initiative. They have already uncovered genetic markers that influence the efficacy and safety of drugs. Study results have also identified new therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>As an added bonus for Quebec, the network attracts world-class experts in science and health. The Quebec ecosystem promotes knowledge transfer and talent mobility, which attracts the next generation of health professionals and \u201chybrid\u201d profiles. The FACS initiative will have trained talented individuals who can readily harness the significant innovation potential of artificial intelligence and the challenges of health research. As a result, Quebec benefits from the tremendous added value of experts who can apply their dual expertise to drug discovery and development.<\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"rounded-background-svg\">\n  \n<\/div>\n<div class=\"rounded-background alignfull\"\n>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__svg-wrapper has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n      <svg \n    xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\n    xmlns:xlink=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\"\n    width=\"1920px\" height=\"147px\" viewBox=\"0 0 1920 147\">\n    <path class=\"background-path\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"  fill=\"#fff\"\n    d=\"M-0.000,146.1000 L-0.000,46.1000 C-0.000,46.1000 7.625,11.500 576.000,3.1000 C619.500,3.1000 940.704,-0.084 991.000,1.000 C1041.296,2.084 1378.399,3.056 1459.1000,6.1000 C1541.601,10.944 1920.107,16.986 1919.1000,50.1000 C1919.893,85.014 1919.1000,146.1000 1919.1000,146.1000 L-0.000,146.1000 Z\"\/>\n    <\/svg>\n   <\/div>\n   <div class=\"rounded-background__inner has-background has-grey-100-background-color\">\n    \n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">IMMUNE BIOSOLUTIONS &#8211; A true success story ! Succes stories of companies supported by CQDM<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Immune Biosolutions: from start-up to an established biopharma company thanks to CQDM\u2019s support<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>When it began in 2012,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/immunebiosolutions.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Immune Biosolutions<\/a>&nbsp;specialized in antibody production for research. However, the company, hosted by the Sherbrooke Pharmacology Institute, wanted to explore a transition towards the development of therapeutic antibody projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As part of its SynergiQc program, CQDM granted Immune Biosolutions funding, which gave it the impetus needed to initiate cancer immunotherapy projects. In partnership with senior research scientists at l\u2019Universit\u00e9 Sherbrooke, Professors Fernand Gobeil Jr, Philippe Sarret et Fernand-Pierre Gendron the young company launched programs to develop therapeutic antibodies targeting two membrane receptors from a family involved in the progression of many cancers, the G protein-coupled receptors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u00ab CQDM\u2019s support helped us establish our credibility, draw considerable interest for our technology and build partnerships with world-class pharmaceutical companies.\u201d <br>Fr\u00e9d\u00e9ric Leduc, Chief Business Officer, Immune Biosolutions&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"423\" height=\"260\" src=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Immune-Biosolutions.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-650\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Immune-Biosolutions.png 423w, https:\/\/cqdm.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Immune-Biosolutions-300x184.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 423px) 100vw, 423px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group block-accordions-group accordion-container\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordion-item accordion ac\" id=\"learn-more-about-this-story\"><div class=\"accordion__accordion\"><button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\"><p class=\"accordion__header__title\">Learn more about this story<\/p><span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\"><span class=\"plus\"><\/span><\/span><\/button><div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\" role=\"region\">\n\n<p>Thanks to the impetus generated by CQDM\u2019s collaborative research model, Immune Biosolutions has seen a marked increase in its growth. Not only have antibody candidates made progress towards establishing a proof-of-concept by moving into preclinical development, but the funding also enabled the company to develop several innovative platforms:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"is-style-checkmark wp-block-list\">\n\n<li>A high-performance platform of recombinant antibody production;<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Production of tthree-dimensional peptide antigens that take in to account the complexity and conformation of the therapeutic targets;<\/li>\n\n\n<li>High-throughput antibody screening able to measure the affinity of antibodies for the target as well as their effect on cellular activity.<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<p>These advances allowed Immune Biosolutions to boost its abilities to develop therapeutic antibodies, which was a critical factor enabling the establishment of a clinical program against COVID-19 at a remarkable speed! In just a few months the company has developed a breakthrough COVID-19 immunotherapy and initiated Phase I clinical trials in South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>CQDM has contributed to Immune Biosolutions\u2019 positive positioning and credibility in the industry, resulting in partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies and a new round of financing to further its development activities.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>Collaborative research, at the core of CDQM\u2019s funding model, propelled the Sherbrooke-based research antibody company to become a highly credible and promising drug development company, well positioned to become a key player in this competitive field.<\/p>\n\n\n<p><em><strong>To learn more about Immune Biosolutions:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/immunebiosolutions.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/immunebiosolutions.com\/<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<\/div>\n\n   <\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>CQDM \u2013 An important player for economic revival in Quebec and in Canada as a whole Projects funded by CQDM are a source of major scientific breakthroughs, allowing for the development of innovations that provide considerable value to participating businesses and offering numerous socio-economic benefits to Quebec and Canada as a whole. You can see&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":3647,"parent":196,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-360","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/360","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=360"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/360\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7640,"href":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/360\/revisions\/7640"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/196"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3647"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/cqdm.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=360"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}