Stroke innovation technology scores Challenger title
Creators of a pioneering therapy that improves blood flow to the brain in ischaemic stroke patients, potentially improving their recovery, have won an inaugural biotech pitch event.
University of Newcastle and HMRI researcher Daniel Beard and his team won the inaugural Challenger Summit, an event inviting researchers from Australian universities, research institutes and the public health system to pitch their innovations that address global health challenges.
Hosted by biotech incubator Proto Axiom, the Summit served as a platform for ideas and solutions that have the potential to reshape the future of medicine.
Proto Axiom’s Chairman of Strategic Advisors Anand Gautum and Proto Axiom CEO Anthony Liveris congratulate Dr Daniel Beard (centre) on winning the inaugural Challenger Summit.
Stroke is a leading cause of disability, with current treatments reaching less than 15 per cent of patients due to time constraints and accessibility issues.
Dr Beard’s research presents a new approach to minimising long-term stroke effects, with the potential to extend the treatment window, enhance recovery outcomes and save lives.
The innovative approach uses shear stress-activated nanoparticles to release nitroglycerin specifically in the brain’s collateral vessels, improving blood flow and preserving brain tissue.
Dr Beard’s stroke innovation technology won him the $150,000 Challenger Prize, plus dedicated support from Proto Axiom advisers to help advance the development and potential commercialisation of his innovation, SheaRX.
“Stroke remains one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide, and this prize will enable us to advance research that will make a real difference for patients,” Dr Beard said.
University of Newcastle Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor Zee Upton congratulated Dr Beard on winning the Challenger Summit, acknowledging the event as an important incubator of innovation to fuel biotech advancements.
“Working alongside our industry and community partners, University of Newcastle researchers are making a real difference in Australia and around the world, finding solutions to some of our greatest health challenges,” Professor Upton said.
“Daniel’s SheaRx technology is a wonderful example of home-grown innovation that will have a huge impact for stroke patients and help them to live better, healthier lives.”
Proto Axiom CEO Anthony Liveris said he was delighted to support Australia’s science community through the Challenger initiative.
“The Challenger Summit is all about empowering researchers to bring their bold ideas to life, and we are proud to be part of a platform that highlights the amazing talent within our country.”
Dr Beard’s clinical and scientific collaborators include University of Newcastle’s Professor Neil Spratt and Harvard University Associate Professor Netanel Korin.
Successful commercialisation could revolutionise stroke care, increasing the number of patients eligible for reperfusion therapy and reducing disability rates.
Contact
- Carmen Swadling, Media and Communications Specialist
- Email: carmen.swadling@newcastle.edu.au
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