Florida State University along with 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals has formalized a pact granting the biotech firm access to the university’s patented research on a compound under investigation for its advantageous antiviral and anti-inflammatory characteristics.
“FSU researchers are generating work that has tangible effects across various sectors, particularly in human health,” commented Associate Vice President for Strategic Partnerships and Initiatives Valerie McDevitt. “We are eager to enhance our partnership with 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals to bring FSU innovations to the public sphere.”
60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, a business dedicated to advancing and commercializing therapies for infectious ailments, has secured rights to the university’s findings related to extracts from Moreton Bay chestnut trees. FSU Professor of Medicine Gary K. Ostrander and FSU Assistant Vice President for Research Eric Holmes have established multiple patents concerning the compound Castanospermine, including a large-scale technique for purifying the compound, a crucial procedure to guarantee safety and efficacy.
Castanospermine is a natural compound derived from the seeds of the Moreton Bay chestnut tree, native to Australia. Studies have indicated that it frequently inhibits enzymes that are vital in sugar processing and protein attachment to cell membranes. Furthermore, it has demonstrated potential in suppressing the replication of various viruses.
Geoff Dow, CEO of 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, stated that the company intends to dedicate the next six to twelve months assessing whether Castanospermine can be utilized to develop a market-ready botanical extract or dietary supplement.
“Castanospermine alkaloids and their derivatives have been extensively examined in both clinical and non-clinical trials, and we are confident there is significant potential to swiftly introduce a product that would be advantageous to human health,” Dow expressed.
Holmes and Ostrander share excitement concerning the prospective applications of the compound.
“We’ve observed the tremendous potential the compound has, which presents promising pathways for numerous conditions,” Ostrander remarked. “The ongoing studies continue to reveal its diverse benefits, making it a truly captivating candidate for future therapies and other health-related products.”
Holmes echoed this sentiment: “Castanospermine is a strong natural compound, and its unique structural characteristics truly offer a vast array of scientific possibilities.”
For additional details regarding FSU’s technology transfer initiatives, please visit the FSU Commercialization website.
The article FSU and 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals announce option agreement to accelerate health product development first appeared on Florida State University News.