Dr. Tessier-Lavigne discussed the molecules and the mechanisms involved in axonal guidance. Proteins that either attract or repel axon growth have been identified. Dr. Tessier-Lavigne uses a C. elegans model to study factors involved in axon guidance. He predicts that with a better understanding of these factors, it might be possible to neutralize inhibitory factors and stimulate regrowth of axons damaged in spinal cord and peripheral nerve injuries. In addition to scientific presentations, NVF included talks and panel discussions on starting and financing biotechnology ventures.
Investment flows from the investor directly to the start-up.
This business model is different from the venture capital model because venture capitalists often invest their own funds and play an active role in company management. MDS Capital accesses technologies at the early stages by maintaining close ties with universities, especially the Canadian Centres of Excellence. MDS takes an active role in company management and develops an idea to the point where the optimal commercialization strategy can be determined and implemented. One of MDS Capital's funds is Neuroscience Partners, which has a portfolio of 15 companies in the US and Canada that specialize in central nervous system treatments. Portfolio companies include Apollo Biopharmaceuticals, Cambridge Neuroscience, Centaur Pharmaceuticals, Acorda, Exogen, and MitoKor.