Melbourne Uni licenses Parkinson's tech to start-up

The University of Melbourne has signed a deal with US start-up company Procypra Therapeutics to develop a new class of drugs with the potential to treat neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s.

The university and the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health have discovered that a class of synthetic compounds called copper bis (thiosemicarbanozones) could potentially treat neurodegenerative conditions.

Parkinson’s disease causes modifications to key proteins of the brain, making them toxic. Copper bis have demonstrated potential at preventing these changes.

Under the agreement, the university will receive royalty payments on products developed by Procypra. The company aims to commence the first in-human clinical trials within three years.

Procypra was established by Collaborative Medicinal Development, the pharmaceutical development vehicle of Cthulhu Ventures.

“This agreement reflects the desire for innovative research at The University of Melbourne to be translated into impact,” University of Melbourne School of Chemistry head Professor Frances Separovic said.

“[It also] recognises the importance of working with academic collaborators like the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, and industry partners, to achieve this goal.”

The research was led by Dr Paul Donnelly of the university’s School of Chemistry and Bio21 Institute; Associate Professor Kevin Barnham of the Bio21 Institute, the Florey Institute and the Department of Pharmacology; and Associate Professor Anthony White from the Department of Pathology.