STRATEGY AND OBJECTIVES

Dia-B’s underlying strategy and objective is the discovery and development of pharmaceuticals, diagnostics and treatments for diabetes and diabetes-related diseases.

PROJECT PORTFOLIO

Dia-B’s project portfolio focuses on development of therapeutics for the treatment of both diabetes types 1 and 2. Dia-B has interests in three research projects which have shown potential for the treatment of diabetes.

The most developed of the projects in which Dia-B holds an interest is the ISF-402 Project which is being developed in conjunction with IDI and Monash University.

Co-inventor Professor Paul Zimmet AO says “The development of ISF-402 is a very exciting opportunity for Australia. The current drug therapies used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes have all been developed overseas. Of these 90% of those used in Australia (sulphonylureas, biguanides) were developed over 40 years ago and have been the mainstay of diabetes treatment. For example, over 50% of type 2 diabetes drug usage in this country is Metformin – and this is the 50th anniversary of its discovery! Its mode of action is still unclear despite many years of research.

The more recently developed drugs [thiazolidinedione (glitazones)] do have improved actions. They are still, however,associated with unwanted side effects such as weight gain, oedema and the potential to cause heart failure. Interestingly the current drug therapies may control blood sugar levels, however serious diabetes complications still occur. Some of these complications include heart disease, kidney failure and vision difficulties. Strokes and limb amputation also occur. These complications can occur at all ages from adolescents to adults. Therefore, the opportunity to develop a new drug in Australia based on a naturally-occurring hormone with the possibility of minimal side effects has huge market need and potential”.

OTHER TECHNOLOGIES

Dia-B will continue to assess new technologies related to prospective therapeutic treatments for diabetes, obesity and associated diseases. Dia-B will also continue to conduct due diligence and negotiations in relation to possible acquisitions on an ongoing basis as a part of normal business activities with a view to acquisition of interests in those technologies.