SCN to become world leader within diagnosis and research in the field of virus-induced obesity
SCN has signed a world-wide license agreement for the patent rights to the obesity related virus adenovirus 36 (AD36). The agreement is signed between SCN and the internationally renowned researcher and Professor Richard L. Atkinson. In conjunction with the agreement, SCN has initiated additional research cooperation with Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, one of Europe’s leading medical universities, and Professor Atkinson. SCN aims for a commercial launch of its first diagnostic tests within six to twelve months.
Professor Atkinson comments; “The results from a number of research projects indicate that between 30 and 57 percent of obese people and as much as 18 percent of lean people could be infected by the human adenovirus AD36.” Results from animal testing show that nearly all individuals infected by the virus had significantly more fat compared with a control group of lean animals, even though their food intake was in fact less. Atkinson continues; “The virus transforms ordinary cells into fat-storing cells. It is therefore of utmost importance that we develop reliable screening tests to identify people who are infected by the virus, and that we also combine this with efficient treatment.”
Martin Schalling, Professor of Medical Genetics at Karolinska Institutet, comments; “On the basis of the research results so far, we find it highly likely that the AD36 is an important factor in the epidemic and global development of obesity, which is one of the biggest and fastest growing public health concerns of our time. We look forward to taking an active role in this critical field of research.”
In conjunction with the above mentioned agreements, SCN has established a subsidiary; Scandivir AB. SCN owns 71 percent of the shares in Scandivir AB, Professor Atkinson owns 25 percent through his company Obetech and the remaining 4 percent are held by three smaller investors. The purpose of Scandivir AB is to develop diagnostic screening tests for both hospitals and private use. The screening tests should easily show if a person either carries AD36 or has developed antibodies. Furthermore, the purpose is also to develop different types of treatments, such as diets and preparations.
Ulf Söderberg, CEO of SCN, comments; “Given the research conducted by Professor Atkinson and Karolinska Institutet, we see enormous potential in the field of diagnosis and treatment of virus-induced obesity. Our vision is that everyone is tested for the virus and that diagnostic tests are standard at hospitals and health care centers world-wide.”
SCN has previously announced a license agreement for the substance NGNA, which could be a potential treatment for AD36. Scandivir AB will continue the development of this substance against AD36 and other viruses.
The estimated investment need for SCN to develop diagnostic tests for commercial launch is limited to no more than USD 2 million. Ahead of the actual commercial launch, SCN will seek to contact cooperation partners. Funding needs exceeding the above will be covered through capitalization of Scandivir AB.
Please note that background material, pictures and links to clinical studies are available at www.scnutrition.com/press.
More information:
Anders Struksnes, COO, as@scnutrition.com, +47 911 98 942
Dan Edwall, VP R&D, de@scnutrition.com, +46 70 798 80 89