This collaboration will allow Providence and UHN to develop mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics for those living with difficult to treat cancers and infectious diseases, using Providence’s proprietary mRNA platform technology.
Providence and UHN will partner on “cutting-edge” discovery projects with breakthrough mRNA technology. The product development and subsequent manufacturing will be done in Canada.
In addition, programs developed through the collaboration that receive funding from the Canadian government or not-for-profits will provide an option to the host government for 100% reimbursement to retain country specific rights to intellectual property.
“This partnership is unique in that it provides country-of-origin rights to Canada for all therapies developed under the agreement,” said Brad Sorenson, CEO of Providence.
“As a parent of a child that survived a late-stage cancer diagnosis, I empathize with anyone that needs treatment that is available elsewhere in the world but is too expensive for our healthcare system in Canada.
“UHN is world-class, and Providence has demonstrated its mRNA platform is on par with other major mRNA companies. This sets up Canada to be a leader in exporting life-saving therapies throughout the world while taking care of Canadians.”
Brad Wouters, executive vice president, science and research at the University Health Network added: “Our partnership with Providence demonstrates the strength of discovery research at the University Health Network and our potential to fuel innovative therapeutic options for patients. This partnership will help us get homegrown treatments to patients faster and is a key path forward for research discoveries to evolve into medical breakthroughs.”
