Chemaphor Inc, a biotechnology research and development company, has entered into a second Contribution Agreement with the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Programme (NRC-IRAP). This agreement will provide research and development financial support of approximately $271,000. The contribution relates to the development of Chemaphor's OxBC product in a variety of dosage forms for canines.

Chemaphor will work in collaboration with several leading Canadian specialty formulation companies in Ontario and Quebec to develop several companion animal OxBC prototype formulations that will undergo subsequent stability, palatability and safety testing. This contribution will also allow for the hire of one full-time analytical chemist.

Dr Paul Dick, CEO of Chemaphor comments, "NRC-IRAP support will play an integral part in aiding Chemaphor's efforts in advancing the development and ultimate commercialization of OxBC pet formulations. Having a strategic collaborator like the NRC makes companies such as Chemaphor stronger and more viable for the long term. We sincerely appreciate the support provided by NRC-IRAP."

This project will complement the current NRC-IRAP project that is being conducted in Chemaphor's laboratory in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, to evaluate the efficacy and mode of action of OxBC through a series of canine clinical trials and supporting laboratory studies. Taken together, both NRC-IRAP supported projects will significantly contribute to accelerating the development and commercialization of OxBC products for canines.

Chemaphor uses its core expertise in biology and organic chemistry to develop premium products for the animal health, skin care, human nutraceutical, aquaculture and specialty chemical markets.

OxBC is a proprietary product obtained by the full oxidation of ß-carotene.

NRC-IRAP works with small- and medium-sized Canadian firms, providing expertise and advice as well as potential funding in developing their innovative ideas.