February 14, 2008

SUPPORT FOR THE MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT’S INVESTMENT IN THE INTERNATIONAL CONSORTIUM ON ANTI-VIRALS (ICAV)

This $2 million grant over the next two years will allow ICAV to continue working towards its goal of discovering and developing new therapeutic interventions for viral infections. We’re looking to leverage the expertise we develop through our research on anti-virals against an influenza pandemic to deliver low-cost antiviral treatments to patients around the world for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B and C, dengue fever, rotavirus infection in children and many others.
Dr. Jeremy Carver, CEO and CSO, International Consortium on Anti-Virals

We know that the research we’re conducting in Peterborough and around the world will protect people in the face of large-scale viral outbreaks in the future. But it’s a race against the clock to find anti-virals that work.  By collaborating with 200 of the world’s leading researchers through our consortium, we’re much more likely to develop better anti-virals to save lives, and we will more likely to do it cheaper and faster.
Dr. Michael Chrétien, Responsible for International Partnerships and Networking, International Consortium on Anti-Virals

We applaud the Ontario government’s decision to support the Consortium on Anti-Virals, which is already drawing some of the best international talent to Trent University and research institutions across Ontario. The Greater Peterborough Innovation Cluster is proud to be a partner in these efforts – Peterborough is fast becoming one of Canada’s most advanced research clusters, which is stimulating more investment in our community, more opportunities for success and a higher quality of life for us all.
Andy Mitchell, President, Greater Peterborough Innovation Cluster

The International Consortium on Anti-Virals has the potential to be a flagship for Ontario’s and Canada’s support of internationally innovative and important science.  There could not be a more effective mechanism for translating science into the benefit of the broader human family.
Peter Doherty, Nobel Laureate, Australia, and member of the International Consortium on Anti-Virals International Scientific Advisory Board

The International Consortium on Anti-Virals has a critical role in the global fight against diseases – particularly in the Third World where many of these diseases pose serious threats. The research being done by this leading group will help develop new therapeutic entities with commercialization potential to be spun out to new companies, creating high quality jobs for Ontario and Canada.
J Grant Tipler, Head, Life Sciences and Biosciences, RBC

For more information, please visit www.ontario.ca/innovation.

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