Chapter 1: The Role of Small Businesses in Healthcare Innovation

Can small enterprises take the initiative in addressing both cancer and COVID-19? Cancer impacts many lives, prompting researchers worldwide to seek novel solutions. One promising avenue is the repurposing of existing drugs that may not have been effective in prior treatments.

SciTech Development, based in Michigan and previously linked to the Karmanos Cancer Institute and Wayne State University, emerged as a response to the National Cancer Institute's call for innovative solutions. Their focus is on enhancing the efficacy of fenretinide, an oncology drug that has been deemed less effective compared to others.

Fenretinide is a synthetic derivative of Vitamin A, originally developed in the 1960s by Johnson & Johnson for acne treatment. Its potential as an oncology drug was recognized later, as it binds to various receptors and induces apoptosis in cancer cells. However, its low bioavailability hinders its effectiveness in treating cancer, as the hydrophobic nature of the drug limits its absorption into the bloodstream when taken orally.

To address this challenge, SciTech Development has developed a patented technology, the SciTech Drug Delivery Vehicle (SDV), designed to enhance the bioavailability of hydrophobic drugs. This innovative phospholipid matrix facilitates the drug's entry into the bloodstream, significantly improving its therapeutic potential. Their enhanced compound, ST-001 nanoFenretinide, is set to enter clinical trials soon and has received FDA Orphan Drug designation as of December 2017.

In an unexpected twist, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has spurred SciTech Development to explore additional applications of their innovations. Early research suggests that ST-001 nanoFenretinide may offer protective benefits against flaviviruses, including the coronavirus. COVID-19 often results in severe complications due to cytokine storms, where excessive cytokines are released into the bloodstream. The ST-001 nanoFenretinide compound appears to inhibit viral replication and mitigate the severe symptoms associated with the disease.

“It’s akin to having multiple opportunities to score… the drug impacts various pathways. The more chances you take, the higher the probability of success,” explains Dr. Louis M. Scarmoutzos, Senior Vice-President of Operations at SciTech Development.

SciTech Development is currently seeking funding to explore ST-001 nanoFenretinide as a potential COVID-19 therapy. They aim to collaborate with governmental organizations to initiate a Phase I clinical trial. Partnering with industry leaders who are also tackling similar challenges is no small feat. Nevertheless, SciTech believes that a unified approach is crucial to overcoming this crisis. Recently, they collaborated with Catalyze Group to submit a proposal to the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), focusing on the therapeutic potential of their compound for COVID-19 while also highlighting its oncology benefits.

This innovative approach is groundbreaking, as it emphasizes collaboration with natural compounds. The team's dedication to research and creativity has led to the development of biotechnology that addresses multiple health threats. Small businesses like SciTech Development enjoy a unique agility that allows them to pursue ideas beyond the strategic focus of larger corporations. This transformative method of repurposing innovation could pave the way for critical advancements in addressing some of the most pressing medical challenges faced by humanity.

Interested in discussing biotechnology or innovations in the bioeconomy? Let’s connect! If you’re working on exciting scientific developments that deserve attention, feel free to share your thoughts below! Don't forget to check out this related article:

Chapter 2: Funding Innovation in Healthcare

This video discusses the significance of drug repurposing and diagnostics during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting innovative approaches in the healthcare sector.

In this video, Sen-Jam co-founder Jackie Iversen shares insights on health innovation in the context of COVID-19, emphasizing collaborative efforts in the industry.

Catalyze Group excels in securing funding for healthcare and biomedical innovations, aiming to reduce barriers to resources and enhance success rates while accelerating research and development.