[Licensing negotiation in progress]
[Invitation for Expression of Interest - Deadline: 30 December 2016]
We are inviting expressions of interest (EoI) for commercializing “Nanoparticle contrast agent for early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)” technology. The innovations are developed by Professor CHOW Hee Lum Albert, of School of Pharmacy of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK Reference: 12/MED/476).
The Technology
Alzheimer’s disease is an incurable and progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Current AD drugs only provide partial symptomatic relief and do not slow degeneration. However, many drug candidates operating by different mechanisms are now being tested, and some of these may prove effective in delaying disease progression. Therefore, it will become increasingly important to identify patients as early as possible in the disease course in order to initiate treatment before irreversible brain injury takes place. The invention is a novel nanoparticle that can enter the brain and specifically bind to amyloid plaques for detection by MRI, providing a non-invasive method to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease at an early stage.
Commercialization
The technology is now available for licensing on an exclusive basis. In order to fully realize the benefit of the technology, we expect substantial investment is necessary to enable further research and development. In addition to the financial commitment, the licensee is expected to have the appropriate expertise as well as plans in marketing and strategizing the end product to ensure successful transfer of the technology to the society. Previous or existing business involvement and experience in this area is a plus.
This invitation of expression of interest is without prejudice. We also stress that this invitation is not a tender, and the University is not bound to accept any offer, or to accept the highest monetary offer, as there are additional considerations (such as the widest possible benefit to the community) that we, as a public institution, will need to take into consideration.
