Innovations

In addition to our core resources, CAN helps to develop and utilise the innovative technologies, diagnostics, therapeutics and evidence-based information arising from its members’ research.

Glucosamine derivatives

On behalf of CAN member Dr. Tassos Anastassiades patent applications have been filed on the use of glucosamine derivatives to treat arthritis, control blood glucose, treat osteoporosis, and affect weight gain. Specifically with respect to arthritis and osteoporosis and based on in vitro observations, it is expected that these derivatives will have superior pharmacological benefits over the parent glucosamine.

Imaging Techniques

CAN research has enabled the creation of novel quantitative measures of joint destruction to use with newly developed imaging and diagnostic technologies . These methods will allow improved abilities to detect the development and assess the efficacy of treatments for arthritis.

Improved drug delivery methods

A new approach to introduce bio-active compounds into living cells is being developed to enable drugs to enter cells and interfere with pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Industry collaboration

Collaborations have been created with several biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies to look at novel ways to stimulate bone formation, prevent chondrocyte dedifferentiation in osteoarthritis, inhibit bone loss in rheumatoid arthritis, improve the tissue engineering of cartilage, and use chemokine antagonists as anti-inflammatory therapeutics.

Canada-wide statistical reference book

CAN played a pivotal role in the initiation and development of Arthritis in Canada the first Canada-wide statistical reference book on arthritis. The book's leading author, CAN member Dr. Elizabeth Badley, collaborated on this project with otherCAN members, Health Canada, industry, The Arthritis Society and other not-for-profit organizations in the arthritis community. The reference brings together isolated pieces of information from across the country about the impact of arthritis on Canadians and helps researchers, industry and the government to address the areas of greatest need for those affected by this disease.

For more information, contact:

Johnathan Riley
Managing Director

Phone: 416-586-3167