[TECHNOLOGY OPPORTUNITY 1990-008]

<< Back to Life Sciences

Porphyrin Derivatives for Cancer Treatment
1990-008

A tri-university team of researchers has developed novel therapeutic compositions with both photoactive and chemotherapeutic activity for the treatment of malignant tumours.

The Technology:
A new class of porphyrin derivatives has been developed having both chemotherapeutic and photosensitizing activity. The chemotherapeutic utility of these therapeutic compositions are due to their preferential accumulation in necrotic and hypoxic tumor areas. Results of both in vivo studies in animals and in vitro studies on cancer cell lines have demonstrated both photoactive and chemotherapeutic effect with very low systemic toxicity.

Advantages:
¥  Novel therapeutic compositions with potential Adouble-action@ anti-tumour activity, i.e. photosensitization and chemotherapy.
¥  Chemotherapeutic activity with reduced limiting toxic side effects.
¥  Compounds clear most tissues, including the skin, in as little as 24 hours, thus minimizing toxic side effects.
¥  Well-established synthesis and purification method with high yield.

Commercial Status:
This invention is protected by U.S. Patent No. 5,219,878 and Canadian Patent No. 2,093,361, covering therapeutic compositions and methods for detecting and treating malignancies. PARTEQ is seeking a licensee and/or drug development partner.

Contact:
Perry M. Kim, PhD
Manager, Commercial Development
PARTEQ Innovations
Biosciences Complex
Queen's University
Kingston, ON K7L 3N6
P: 613. 533. 2342 F: 613. 533. 6853
pkim@parteqinnovations.com