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Optimizing the DNA of plant medicines

Delic Labs Partners With GT Research

This partnership could offer valuable services to producers across Canada.

Delic Labs of Delic Corp (DELC) is partnering with GT Research Inc. to help mushroom and cannabis producers optimize their products.

Through the deal, Delic Labs will use DNA analysis to evaluate the commercial value of different cannabis and psychedelic mushroom strains based on certain gene traits. The services will help Canadian producers optimize their compounds through genetic engineering to produce more effective plant medicines.

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Optimi Health Appoints Principal Investigator for Clinical Dosing Study

Optimi Health Appoints Principal Investigator for Clinical Dosing Study

VANCOUVER, BC (October 19, 2021) — Optimi Health Corp. (CSE: OPTI) (OTCQB: OPTHF) (FRA: 8BN) (“Optimi” or the “Company”), developers of a vertically integrated mushroom brand targeting functional as well as novel psychedelic compounds focused on the health and wellness sector, is pleased to announce the appointment of Valerie H. Taylor, MD, PhD as principal investigator on behalf of the University of Calgary for the proposed phase I psilocybin clinical dosing study.

Dr. Valerie Taylor is a clinician scientist researching new treatments for those suffering from mental illness through the lens of precision medicine. Originally from Newfoundland and Labrador, she was recruited from the University of Toronto to lead the Psychiatry Department at the University of Calgary in 2018 with a mandate focused on innovation, access, and efficiency. Professor Taylor’s research activities are focused broadly on the area of the brain body interface utilizing translational research examining how novel compounds impact psychiatric & illness conditions. She currently sits as Chair of the University of Calgary’s Department of Psychiatry, Board Chair of the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, and as a Full Member of the Hotchkiss Brain Institute.

In response to the appointment, Dr. Taylor notes, “This is a wonderful opportunity to advance the body of knowledge regarding psilocin and psilocybin’s potential in the mental health field. The Optimi team is clearly focused on achieving specific quantifiable results, and I’m delighted to have the opportunity to help ensure the study proceeds efficiently.”

A Principal Investigator (PI) is the physician who leads the conduct of a clinical trial at a study site. Responsibilities include ensuring the study is run in accordance with national regulatory agency requirements and “Good Clinical Practice” (GCP). Compliance with GCP provides assurance that the rights, safety, and well-being of trial participants are protected, and that the results of the clinical trials are credible and accurate.

As a representative of the University, Dr. Taylor will be working under the auspices of a previously announced agreement (March 9, 2021) with the IMPACT Clinical Trial Accelerator Program housed within Alberta’s Life Sciences Innovation Hub at the University of Calgary. The program works to design, support, execute, and report on the clinical trial process in conjunction with a Principal Investigator. IMPACT will provide expert clinical support towards commercializing proposed psilocybin-based formulations through the conduct of clinical trials and expert assistance towards securing regulatory approval.

Clinical studies require patients, and the PI can provide patients the possibility of participating in the study to assist in evaluating the efficacy and safety of these investigational treatments. To this end, IMPACT and Dr. Taylor have introduced the Hotchkiss Brain Institute (‘HBI’) (https://hbi.ucalgary.ca/) to participate in the trial process. HBI membership includes researchers from across 9 faculties at UCalgary’s various departments and institutes, many of whom may provide access to a large pool of potential volunteer patient candidates suitable for phase I studies which offers a procedural launchpad towards larger phase II and III studies.

Optimi Health CEO Bill Ciprick states, “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Taylor to IMPACT’s investigative team and look forward to working with her in the coming months. I’m also very pleased to advise that pursuant to our advisory announcement of June 15, 2021, our formal dosing study trial application to Health Canada is on-track for submission in Q4 and truly paves the way towards our ability to unlock the long-term importance of psilocybin as a means of treating unmet health conditions and commensurate future shareholder value.”

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

Bill Ciprick
Chief Executive Officer
Optimi Health Corp.

ABOUT OPTIMI (CSE: OPTI) (OTCQB: OPTHF) (FRA: 8BN)

Optimi is developing a sophisticated mushroom brand that focuses on the health and wellness markets. With a vertically integrated approach, Optimi intends to cultivate, extract, process and distribute high quality functional mushroom products at its two facilities comprising a total of 20,000 square feet nearing completion in Princeton, British Columbia. To fully investigate the science of mushrooms, the Company has received a research exemption under Health Canada Food and Drug Regulations (FDR) for the use of Psilocybin and Psilocin for scientific purposes via its wholly owned subsidiary Optimi Labs Inc. Optimi has also applied for a dealer’s license under Canada’s Narcotic Control Regulations governing possession, distribution, sale, laboratory analysis of and research and development of Psilocybin and Psilocin formulations. Optimi is committed to expert cultivation and quality production subject to and in accordance with the terms of all applicable laws and governing regulations to ensure safe, superior Canadian fungi production. Find out more at: https://optimihealth.ca/.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Investor Relations
Email: investors@optimihealth.ca
Phone: +1 (778) 930-1321
Web: https://optimihealth.ca/

FORWARD‐LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains forward‐looking statements and forward‐looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, “forward‐looking statements”) that relate to Optimi’s current expectations and views of future events. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as “will likely result,” “are expected to,” “expects,” “will continue,” “is anticipated,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimated,” “intends,” “plans,” “forecast,” “projection,” “strategy,” “objective,” and “outlook”) are not historical facts and may be forward‐looking statements and may involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in such forward‐looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward‐looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. In particular and without limitation, this news release contains forward‐ looking statements pertaining to the Company’s potential Nasdaq listing, the dealer’s license application, activities proposed to be conducted under the Company’s research exemption and associated business related to Psilocybin and Psilocin and Optimi’s plans, focus and objectives.

Forward‐looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Optimi’s control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward‐looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the impact and progression of the COVID‐19 pandemic and other factors set forth under “Forward‐Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Final Prospectus dated February 12, 2021. Optimi undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward‐looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Optimi to predict all of them or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward‐looking statement. Any forward‐looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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Ketamine Wellness Centers Partners with Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Care Network to Provide Free Ketamine Treatments to Veterans

Ketamine Wellness Centers Partners with Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Care Network to Provide Free Ketamine Treatments to Veterans

Nation’s Largest Clinic Chain’s Partnership with Illinois and Minnesota Chapters to Provide Ketamine Treatments for PTSD, Depression and Pain at No Out-of-Pocket Costs 

VANCOUVER, BC October 15, 2021 – Delic Holdings Corp (“Delic” or the “Company“) (CSE: DELC) (OTCQB: DELCF) (FRA: 6X0) (Original Source) the leading psychedelic wellness platform, today announced two new partnerships between Ketamine Wellness Centers LLC (“KWC“) and the Veterans Administration (VA) Community Care Networks of Illinois and Minnesota. The nation’s largest chain of psychedelic wellness clinics, KWC, will offer ketamine treatments to veterans at no out-of-pocket cost at their locations in Naperville, IL, and Burnsville, MN. The program will cover patients who are experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depression and chronic pain, and who have exhausted all traditional medical treatments. KWC also offers a Hero’s Discount at clinics nationwide to cover partial out-of-pocket costs of the treatment for military veterans and first responders.

More than 1.7 million veterans received treatment in a VA mental health specialty program in 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. One in ten U.S. adults are diagnosed with PTSD, with higher rates found among military veterans and first responders. The percentage of veterans with PTSD varies by where they served: Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom (11-20%), Gulf War/Desert Storm (12%), and the Vietnam War (30% have had PTSD in their lifetime).

Based on recent research studies, PTSD has been shown to damage synaptic connections in the brain that affect information flow. Ketamine treatments have successfully repaired and improved these connections while also building new, healthy ones. PTSD damage can reappear over time if the treatment is stopped and no other support strategies are put in place.

Matt Stang, co-founder and CEO of Delic commented, “This partnership between KWC and the VA Community Care Network is a true game changer when it comes to the health and wellness of our veterans. They face steep challenges when returning home, especially related to their mental and physical health, including PTSD, depression and pain. Now they can seek the treatment they need without worrying about whether they can afford it. These brave men and women have sacrificed so much to protect this country and we are honored to support them.”

“This partnership with the Illinois and Minnesota chapters of the VA Community Care Network is vital to the veterans in those communities,” Kevin Nicholson, CEO of KWC stated. “These men and women coming to KWC have exhausted the traditional treatment options and are seeking effective, affordable therapies to help them get their lives back on track. We are continuing to work with the VA Community Care Network to expand this initiative to our other locations so we can ensure veterans everywhere are supported and have the treatments they need. We want to give back to these heroes for all they have done for this country and offer them a sense of hope and optimism about their futures.”

KWC is a limited liability corporation formed under the laws of Arizona, which operates 10 ketamine infusion treatment clinics across Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, Nevada, Texas, and Washington. KWC is the largest national chain of ketamine infusion clinics in the United States overseeing 60,000 treatments delivered to date.

KWC adds to Delic’s existing portfolio of two clinics operated by Ketamine Infusion Centers in California and Arizona, cementing its position as the leading and largest ketamine wellness provider in the country. Delic expects to open 15 additional clinics across the country over the coming 18 months, further expanding access to millions who can benefit from psychedelic treatment for a variety of mental health conditions.

About Delic Corp, Inc.

Delic is the leading psychedelic wellness platform, committed to addressing the mental health crisis by increasing access to science-backed benefits for all and reframing the psychedelic conversation. The company owns and operates an umbrella of related businesses, including Reality Sandwich and Delic Radio, trusted media and e-commerce platforms; Delic Labs, the only licensed entity by Health Canada to exclusively focus on research and development of psilocybin vaporization technology; Meet Delic, the premier psychedelic wellness event; and the largest chain of psychedelic wellness clinics in the country with Ketamine Infusion Centers and Ketamine Wellness Centers (pending acquisition). Delic is backed by a team of industry and cannabis veterans and a diverse network, whose mission is to provide education, research, high-quality products, and treatment options to the masses. 

The Canadian Securities Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities ‎in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered ‎under the United States ‎Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act“), or any state ‎securities laws and may not be offered or ‎sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. ‎Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an ‎exemption from such registration is available.‎

Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This press release contains certain “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable ‎Canadian securities ‎legislation and may also contain statements that may constitute “forward-looking ‎statements” within the meaning of ‎the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities ‎Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking ‎information and forward-looking statements are not ‎representative of historical facts or information or current ‎condition, but instead represent only the ‎Company’s beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of ‎which, by their nature, are ‎inherently uncertain and outside of Delic’s control. Generally, such forward-looking ‎information or ‎forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as ‎‎”plans”, ‎‎”expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, ‎‎‎”anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or may ‎contain ‎statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be ‎taken”, “will continue”, ‎‎”will occur” or “will be achieved”. The forward-looking information and forward-‎looking statements contained herein ‎may include, but are not limited to: information regarding the timing or terms upon which the Transaction will be completed; potential benefits of the Transaction;  anticipated continued growth in the health and wellness sector (and, in particular, related to psychedelics); the ability of Delic to successfully achieve business ‎objectives, ‎and expectations ‎for other economic, ‎business, and/or competitive factors.‎

By identifying such information and statements in this manner, Delic is alerting the reader that ‎such ‎information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors ‎that may cause ‎the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Delic to be ‎materially different from those ‎expressed or implied by such information and statements. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to: risks and uncertainties relating to the Transaction not closing as planned or at all or on terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement; incorrect assessment of the value and potential benefits of the Transaction; direct and indirect material adverse effects from the COVID-19 pandemic; inability to obtain future financing on suitable terms; failure to obtain required regulatory and other approvals; risks inherent in the psychedelic treatment sector; changes in applicable laws and regulations; and failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations.

In addition, in ‎connection with the forward-looking ‎information and forward-looking statements contained in this press ‎release, Delic has made certain ‎assumptions. These assumptions include, but are not limited to:

assumptions as to the time required to negotiate a definite agreement and complete matters related to the Transaction; the ability to consummate the Transaction; ‎the ability of the parties to ‎obtain, in a timely manner, the requisite regulatory, corporate and other third party approvals and the satisfaction of ‎other conditions to the ‎consummation of the Transaction on the proposed terms; the potential impact of the announcement or consummation of the Transaction on ‎relationships, ‎including with regulatory bodies, employees, suppliers, customers and competitors; ‎changes in general economic, ‎business and political conditions, including changes in the financial ‎markets; changes in applicable laws; compliance ‎with extensive government regulation; and the diversion ‎of management time on the Transaction.‎

Should one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should assumptions ‎underlying the ‎forward-looking information or statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary ‎materially from those described ‎herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or ‎expected.‎

Although Delic believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations ‎contained ‎in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not ‎be placed on such ‎information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such ‎forward-looking information and ‎statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events ‎could differ materially from those anticipated ‎in such information and statements. The forward-looking ‎information and forward-looking statements contained in this ‎press release are made as of the date of ‎this press release, and Delic does not undertake to update any ‎forward-looking information ‎and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in ‎accordance with ‎applicable securities laws. All subsequent written and oral forward- looking information and ‎statements ‎attributable to Delic or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this ‎‎notice.‎

Media & Investor Relations Contact

Rich Rodriguez

rich@deliccorp.com 

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Hey ladies, get those butterflies back with MDMA: issue 19

Here’s what’s in store for you in today’s issue:

🍄 Preventing depression legally

🍄 Inhaling shrooms?

🍄 The cure for low sex drive

🍄 Why your employer should let you do drugs

🍄 And more.

You’ll want to stay till the end to learn how someone found enlightenment on a trippy hike.

(Did a good friend forward this to you? If so be sure to subscribe here)

Be sure to check out this week’s Daily Mushroom podcast:
Psychedelic medicines could hold a promise never seen before in mental healthcare

In this episode we have Dave Philips, a registered clinical counselor who has integrated psychedelic therapy into his practice. Dave talks about how he is training the next generation of psychedelic counselors and how he started in this extraordinary field.

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How to prevent depression legally

Even non-psychedelic mushrooms could lower your risk of depression!

Researchers from the Penn State College of Medicine collected data from 24,000 Americans and discovered that those who ate mushrooms had a lower chance of being depressed.

Mushrooms are the highest dietary source of ergothioneine, an antioxidant that may prevent mental illnesses by reducing oxidative stress protecting against cell damage. 

While the study didn’t factor in different types of mushrooms, white buttons are believed to ease anxiety and Lion’s Mane can promote neurogenesis which may prevent mental disorders.

Therapy is hard…but drugs help!

Patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) often struggle with concentration, mood and motivation, which can make therapy challenging or unsuccessful. Can psilocybin’s immediate mood-boosting effect enhance engagement in therapy?
 
Monash University is seeking funding from the Australian government for a proposed 2b clinical trial that would reveal the answer.
 
The study would use proprietary biomarker technology developed by MYND Diagnostics Inc., a subsidiary of MYND Life Sciences (MYND), to monitor blood indicators of the subjects’ response, progress, and any relapsing to the psilocybin treatments. If successful, a multi-site phase 3 adaptive trial would follow within a year of completion to get psilocybin-assisted therapy approved by the Therapeutic Goods Association.

Never leave home without your inhaler 😉

Cybin Inc. (CYBN) developed a new device that delivers psychedelic medicine through inhalation.

Inhaling psychedelics could be superior to oral administration, as it could result in optimized session timing, lower doses, and greater control for healthcare providers.

The company filed an international patent application for the method and the device, which has potential to gain coverage in 153 countries.

inspirational banner

Is MDMA the Viagra for women?

A Vancouver company called LOVE Pharma (LUV) wants to promote mental and sexual wellness with its growing product line. 

The company recently launched two products (a CBD oral strip and a clitoral stimulation gel) and has exclusive rights to a total of seven novel therapeutic products. It’s currently developing a biosynthetic psilocybin strip using the IP from the CBD strip.

On Tuesday, the company was listed on  the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol “G1Q0”.

In other sexual wellness news, Mind Cure Health (MCUR) recently launched a research program to treat female hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), a disorder involving low sex drive and emotional distress, with MDMA-assisted therapy.

How shrooms are saving the butterflies!

An eye-opening psychedelic journey inspired this former Navy SEAL save the butterflies while helping veterans cope with trauma.

Mark Matzeldelaflor founded a nonprofit called Guardian Grange after a magic mushroom trip showed him the healing power of nature.

“I just reconnected to nature and my past, where I was like a kid in the woods. And I realized there’s so much healing in being outside in nature, getting your hands in the dirt and doing good work,” he said.

The organization provides a safety net for veterans where they can learn about conservation, sustainability and regenerative agriculture while transitioning back to civilian life. Its first major initiatives is to build a preserve for Western monarch butterflies, which have had a 99.9% population decline in California.

Why your employer should let you do drugs

Psych’s third annual report on psychedelic medicine revealed some interesting findings.

According to a survey of 440 healthcare professionals working in various fields, two thirds said they were excited about psychedelics as medicines. Of those who’ve personally tried the drugs for therapeutic or spiritual purposes, 83% were in favour of psychedelic medicine.

Consumers also showed a positive view of psychedelics, with about two thirds supporting medical legalization and 38% noting that someone they know would benefit from psychedelic therapy. When asked which psychedelic they would want to try in therapy, psilocybin and salvia were the most popular choices.

The report also showed that psychedelic therapy could save employers US$64 billion in Europe and US$270 billion in America due to fewer sick days and increased productivity.

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New advisor supports expansion into psychedelic treatments

Blackhawk Growth Corp. (CSE:BLR) (CNSX:BLR.CN) (Frankfurt:0JJ) is accelerating its expansion into psychedelic and mental health treatments with a new addition to its team.

Yesterday, Blackhawk appointed Dr. Lahiru Russell, the founder and chief scientist of Digital Health Technologies, as the company’s medical advisor. Using her 10+ years of experience in clinical trials and psycho-oncology research, Dr. Russel is developing a mindfulness-based intervention platform that will help patients regulate their emotions and thoughts to reduce negative mental health conditions.

Blackhawk’s subsidiary, MindBio Therapeutics, will be able to utilize Dr. Russel’s IP in its microdosing research through a commercialization agreement with Digital Mind Technology, which was established last month.

MindBio will also utilize Google Cloud’s “Health Care Solutions” to recruit, enroll, and engage with patients in its internal clinical trials and to accelerate drug development.

A new subsidiary to tackle depression

atai Life Sciences (ATAI) and Chymia LLC launched a new company to offer individualized care for patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD).

The company, PsyProtix, takes a precision psychiatry approach – an emerging method that treats illnesses based on each patient’s genetic, metabolic, environmental, and lifestyle variability.

The platform should allow patients to be diagnosed and treated faster and more effectively than when following protocols designed for the majority.

Measuring brain penetration?

Mindset Pharma (MSET) is rapidly expanding its pipeline thanks to advancements made by its Co-operative Psychedelics Evaluation (COPE) program, which aims to develop preclinical benchmark data for psychedelic medicines.

Researchers established standard pharmacokinetic, brain penetration, and drug discrimination data and protocols for psilocybin, LSD, and 5-MeO-DMT. The company also developed procedures to determine concentrations of the drugs in plasma, brain, and cerebral spinal fluid.

These finding, which were gathered in collaboration with InterVivo Solutions, will help drug developers understand how compounds interact with the body. Mindset will commercialize the data by making it available to other InterVivo clients.

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Another win for California

With a unanimous vote, Arata became the third city in California to decriminalize psychedelics!

The possession, cultivation and distributions of entheogens including psilocybin and ayahuasca will become the city’s lowest law enforcement priority, but commercial sale will remain illegal.

The measure represents “a pivotal point in history by reclaiming our sovereign right to explore our consciousness, and to choose the path of healing that we see best fit for ourselves,” according to an organizer of the activist group Decriminalize Nature Humboldt.

We told you decriminalization isn’t risky!

It’s been over two years since Denver decriminalized mushrooms, and a recent report shows that people are using psilocybin responsibly.

The Denver Psilocybin Mushroom Policy Review Panel, which is comprised of local officials, law enforcement, and scientific experts, unanimously agreed that there have been no significant public health or safety risks as a result of the reform.

The panel proposed that the city’s next steps should be to train first responders to respond to psychedelic crises, create public service announcements on psychedelic safety, and deprioritize the sharing, gifting, and communal use of psilocybin, among other recommendations.

Support for first responders

The push for psilocybin research is gaining traction in Pennsylvania.

Twenty one lawmakers from both parties sponsored a bill called the Public Heath Benefits of Psilocybin Act, which would set up a research framework to optimize psilocybin’s public health benefits. Studies focused on veterans, retired first responders, and their families would be prioritized.

“A growing body of research provides a reason for hope that psilocybin, administered in a controlled setting, will be the most effective tool at our disposal to combat the suicide, opioid and overall mental health crisis burdening the Commonwealth,” the group wrote to colleagues.

Industry Quick Hits

Oct 8 – Numinus (NUMI) Upgrades Psychedelics Lab to Increase Research Service Capabilities Read more…

Oct 11 – Cannabis Global (CBGL) Selects Oakland, CA for New Mushroom-based Psychedelics Infusion Research Initiative Read more…

Oct 13 – Novamind (NM) Granted DEA Licenses for Psilocybin Research Read more…

Oct 13 – MindMed (MNMD) Joins Clinical Trials Transformation Initiative Read more…

Oct 13 – Psyence Group (PSYG) Announces Commencement Of Trading On OTCQB And DTC Eligibility Of Common Shares In The United States Under The Ticker “PSYGF” Read more…

Oct 14 – Delic Corp’s (DELC) Ketamine Wellness Centers Partners with Veterans Affairs Community Care Network to Provide Free Ketamine Treatments to Veterans Read more… 

Video of the Week

Thomas Hartle Advocates for Medical Psilocybin Regulations - TheraPsil

🌲+🌧️+🍄=✨

This Reddit user found enlightenment after taking a mega dose of Golden Teachers in the forest.

“I like to combine mushrooms and hiking. The forecast called for rain on this day. Generally not the best hiking weather, unless there’s shrooms involved.

Once they kicked in I went into this deep meditation. I started to think about current events in my life, but as if I was looking at them from a completely different set of eyes. I was so deep in meditation that I didn’t realize it had started raining. I slowly came to the realization that I was soaking wet. Normally that might have made me feel uncomfortable. I stood up and felt ready for anything this world could throw at me.

I looked around and the visualizations were quite extreme. All of the landscape around me was shifting and moving. It looked like the whole earth was breathing. The patterns in the bark of the trees were moving. I found this big rock under a tree and laid flat on my back. At this point it was raining pretty hard. I could feel every raindrop hitting my face. I could see the droplets falling through the sky as if it was slow motion. The raindrops dripping from the surrounding leaves and branches seemed to be frozen in time. My concept of time itself was totally lost. I felt like I had been laying under that tree for days.

It started to get dark and was still raining. I could hear thunder in the distance. The forest looked so enchanting and I felt like I was in the most magical place. I left the forest and watched the lightning in the distance until the trip wore off. I wasn’t even slightly bothered by the fact that I was totally drenched from head to toe.“

Playlist of the Week

Psychedelic rock
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Mindset Pharma Expands Benchmarking Data for First Generation Psychedelics Through the COPE Program with InterVivo Solutions

Mindset Pharma Expands Benchmarking Data for First Generation Psychedelics Through the COPE Program with InterVivo Solutions

TORONTO, Oct. 14, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mindset Pharma Inc. (CSE: MSET) (FSE: 9DF) (OTCQB: MSSTF) (“Mindset” or the “Company”), a drug discovery and development company focused on creating optimized and patentable next-generation psychedelic medicines to treat neurological and psychiatric disorders with unmet medical needs, today announced that, under its Co-operative Psychedelics Evaluation Platform (“COPE”) program with InterVivo Solutions (“InterVivo”), the Company has further developed its first generation psychedelics benchmarking data by establishing standard pharmacokinetic, brain penetration, and drug discrimination data and protocols across LSD, psilocybin, and 5-MeO-DMT.

“We are excited to share results obtained in our COPE program with InterVivo, as they have allowed Mindset to develop first-of-its-kind benchmarking data. This data represents an additional step toward new drug discovery, and a potential market opportunity to provide peers with the ability to measure their NCEs against first generation compounds,” said James Lanthier, CEO of Mindset. “The COPE program is enabling us to rapidly develop a pipeline of next generation drugs, which we believe will be proven essential for the treatment of neuropsychiatric and neurological diseases in the near future.”

“Under the COPE program, Mindset and InterVivo have generated standard PK and brain penetration data for LSD, psilocybin, and 5-MeO-DMT, and developed analytical procedures to determine concentrations of the drugs and active metabolites, such as psilocin and bufotenine, in plasma, brain and cerebral spinal fluid,” stated Joseph Araujo, Chief Scientific Officer of Mindset. “In addition, we have trained cohorts of rats to discriminate psilocybin from saline, and standard generalization curves have now been established for both oral and subcutaneously administered psilocybin. The Company will proceed by developing further PK and brain penetration studies with DMT and psilocin, as well as establish cohorts of rats to discriminate 5-MeO-DMT from saline. The development of rat cohorts capable of distinguishing several compounds represents a significant development for the industry as a whole, as it will allow drug developers to establish both the perceptual time-course and nuances of novel NCEs. Studies are also underway to quantify 5-HT2A receptor occupancy in the brain.”

The COPE Program is a translational testing platform developed in cooperation with InterVivo to introduce an industry standard against which the performance and efficacy of breakthrough psychedelic medicines are compared and assessed. Through this platform, Mindset and InterVivo intend to establish the first comprehensive psychedelics benchmark reference data set by evaluating a broad range of psychedelic drugs through a proprietary program of in vivo tests conducted at InterVivo’s facility. The COPE program is anticipated to represent an invaluable tool to guide the development of next-generation psychedelic compounds and improve patentability and value in new molecule drug assets.

To watch a video of Mindset’s CEO discussing the announcement in greater detail, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ox17jNoB3k.

For more information, please contact:

Investor Contact:
Allison Soss/Tim Regan
KCSA Strategic Communications
Email: MindSet@kcsa.com
Phone: 212-896-1267/ 347-487-6788

Company Contact:
James Lanthier, CEO
Email: jlanthier@mindsetpharma.com

Jason Atkinson, VP, Corporate Development
Email: jatkinson@mindsetpharma.com
Phone: 416-479-4094

About Mindset Pharma Inc.
Mindset Pharma Inc. is a drug discovery and development company focused on creating optimized and patentable next-generation psychedelic medicines to treat neurological and psychiatric disorders with unmet needs. Mindset was established in order to develop next generation pharmaceutical assets that leverage the breakthrough therapeutic potential of psychedelic drugs. Mindset is developing several novel families of next generation psychedelic compounds, as well as an innovative process to chemically synthesize psilocybin as well as its own proprietary compounds.

For further information on Mindset, please visit our website at www.mindsetpharma.com.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains certain “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward looking information is frequently characterized by words such as “plan”, “expect”, “project”, “intend”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “may”, “will”, “would”, “potential”, “proposed” and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the information is provided and is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Additional information regarding risks and uncertainties relating to the Company’s business are contained under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s annual information form for the financial year ended June 30, 2020 dated March 5, 2021. The forward-looking information included in this news release is made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking information to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATIONS SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPTED RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

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MYND Diagnostics Inc. Announces Participation in a Monash University (Australia) Proposal for $3 Million Clinical Trial

MYND Diagnostics Inc. Announces Participation in a Monash University (Australia) Proposal for $3 Million Clinical Trial

 Evaluating the efficacy of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy in treatment resistant depression

VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 13, 2021 /CNW/ – MYND Diagnostics Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of MYND Life Sciences (CSE: MYND) (OTC: MYNDF) is pleased to announce that the Company’s proprietary biomarker test technology will be a pivotal component of a proposed clinical trial seeking partial funds from a $15 million fund allocated by the Australian government.

The proposed project will directly address the desired outcomes by conducting an adaptive dose finding single phase 2b clinical trial of the efficacy and safety of psilocybin assisted psychotherapy (“PAP”) in the treatment of people diagnosed with treatment resistant depression (“TRD”). MYND Diagnostics’ suite of proprietary biomarkers will be utilized in the trials to assess and then monitor blood indicators of trial subjects’ response, progress, and any relapsing to the psilocybin treatments administered in the trials.

The project team will be led by Professor Paul Fitzgerald, of Monash University with 7 scientific collaborators from Monash University, Deakin University and the University of Sydney.  Dr. Fitzgerald is  Director of the Epworth Centre for Innovation in Mental Health (“ECIMH”) and Professor of Psychiatry at the Epworth Clinic / Epworth Health Care in Camberwell. He is a qualified psychiatrist, has a Masters of Psychological Medicine and research PhD. Professor Fitzgerald has run over 20 clinical trials registered through this scheme over the last two decades.

The proposed study is titled Evaluating the efficacy of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy in treatment resistant depression and MYND Diagnostics’ will play an integral role in the “evaluate” component. If successful, it will lead, within 12 months of completion, to a multi-site phase 3 adaptive trial to take this treatment through to regulatory approval by the Therapeutic Goods Association (“TGA”), the Australian counterpart to Health Canada and the US Food and Drug Administration.

Major Depressive Disorder (“MDD”) is common and results in the greatest global burden of disease. Although there are established treatments for depression, people frequently do not respond to these treatments. At least 1/3 of patients with depression have an inadequate response to medication, many of whom remain persistently unwell. Psilocybin is a naturally derived psychedelic and is converted in the body to psilocin which is the psychoactive agent. The form and dose of drug and psychotherapeutic approach are all important considerations that will be refined through the trial.

Psilocybin has a number of characteristics which support its potential use in patients with depression. These patients often require a psychotherapeutic approach to treatment but struggle to successfully engage in therapy due to impairments of concentration, mood and motivation. Psilocybin has the potential to immediately boost mood enhancing engagement in therapy in addition to any direct physiological effects produced by the substance

“When Dr. Fitzgerald and I signed off on NDAs and entered into discussion back in May of this year, we were optimistic about the receptiveness for this trial within the Australian government’s regulatory climate”, stated Dr. Lyle Oberg MD, MYND Life Sciences CEO. “Depression, and other neuropsychiatric disorders are a plague on the human population that, unfortunately, know no borders. As such, our proposed solutions will require international collaborations within multiple government regulatory ecosystems. We are impressed with Dr. Fitzgerald’s research and leadership in this space, the team he has assembled, and his eagerness to provide one of the very first opportunities to test our emerging suite of biomarker tests.”

ABOUT MYND LIFE SCIENCES

MYND Life Sciences, the parent company of MYND Diagnostics INC., is a medical biotech drug research and development company focused on neuro-pharmaceutical and novel psilocybin drug development, diagnostics and vaccines. The Company is advancing pharmaceuticals through rigorous science and clinical trials, while diligently patenting and safeguarding its intellectual property. For more information and to subscribe to the Company’s mailing list, please visit https://myndsciences.com/contact/

CONTACT INFORMATION
Dr. Lyle Oberg, MD, CEO
Email: ir@myndsciences.com
Web: www.myndsciences.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of MYND to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements or information contained in this release. 

Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this news release.

None of the securities issued in connection with the Offering will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “1933 Act”), and none of them may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any state where such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

SOURCE Mynd Life Sciences Inc.

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Duncan Trussell, Actor, Stand-Up Comedian & Host of the Duncan Trussell Family Hour Podcast, To Keynote At Meet Delic

Duncan Trussell, Actor, Stand-Up Comedian & Host of the Duncan Trussell Family Hour Podcast, To Keynote At Meet Delic

Duncan Trussell, Actor, Stand-Up Comedian & Host of the Duncan Trussell Family Hour Podcast, To Keynote At Meet Delic:

The World’s Premiere Psychedelic and Wellness Event

World’s leading experts and thought leaders on psychedelics and wellness to gather for a two-day immersive edutainment experience at AREA15 in Las Vegas, Nevada, November 6 – 7, 2021

Vancouver, BC, October 12, 2021 – Delic Holdings Corp (“Delic” or the “Company”) (CSE: DELC) (OTCQB: DELCF) (FRA: 6X0) (Original Source) the leading psychedelic wellness platform, today announced that Duncan Trussell will serve as a keynote speaker at Meet Delic on November 6. Trussell is an actor who co-created and appears in the Netflix animated series The Midnight Gospel. He also hosts the Duncan Trussell Family Hour podcastand regularly travels the country performing stand-up comedy at festivals and shows.

Meet Delic is the largest and most comprehensive event to learn about the intersection of psychedelics, wellness, and business with like-minded visionaries. Trussell’s keynote will be a live taping of the Duncan Trussell Family Hour podcast, a weekly salon-style supershow where he and his guests explore the outer reaches of the multiverse. The show is ranked as one of the top 25 comedy podcasts on the Apple Podcast app.

“Duncan is one of those special people who has many talents and excels at all of them,” said Delic co-founder, Jackee Stang. “We are honored and excited to have him host his popular podcast live from the conference so attendees can join in on the fun!”

Meet Delic is committed to bringing awareness of the science-backed benefits of psychedelics and business opportunities to the mainstream and larger global community by reframing the psychedelic conversation. The experiential event will feature dancers, music, 3D-mapping, visual artists, new technologies and research, thought-provoking presentations and one of the world’s largest psychedelic business expo.

The twenty hours of panels and keynotes will include an array of topics such as “Why Are Psychedelics Medicine?”, “How Big Money is (Already) Playing Psychedelics,” “PTSD Reset and Recovery,” “Psychedelics & Addiction: an Intimate Discussion on Recovery in a Modern World,” “Ketamine Clinics Today, Psilocybin and MDMA Therapy Tomorrow,” “Microdosing,” “Psychedelic Activism,” “Aphrodisiacs and Psychedelics: A History of Medicine for Love”, “How Psychedelics Can be Effectively Used for Physical Optimization,” and “Drug Use for Grown-Ups.” Musical and entertainment acts are scheduled both evenings following the panels and expo.

Tickets are now available for the two-day experience. For more information please visit, meetdelic.com. Follow us on @meetdelic on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Tickets available now.

Meet Delic is a subsidiary of Delic, which is focused on bringing psychedelic wellness to the mainstream. The company does this through an umbrella of related owned and operated businesses to support scaling the impact and reach of treatment, including 1) trusted media and e-commerce platforms and in-person events like Meet Delic to market the services directly to patients and consumers and gain data, 2) a licensed lab to develop IP, R&D and innovative high quality and safe product lines and 3) the largest and most accessible network of physical clinics to administer effective treatments.

          ###

About Meet Delic

Meet Delic is the world’s premier psychedelic and wellness edutainment event catering to both curious newcomers, businesses and thought leaders. Held in AREA15, an immersive and experiential entertainment complex in the heart of Las Vegas, the exciting two-day event features industry entrepreneurs, consumers, psychonauts and leading voices in research and science. Meet Delic is the largest and most comprehensive event to learn about the intersection of psychedelics, health and wellness and culture, how to start or grow your business, connect with likeminded visionaries, enjoy fun social activities, and experience the acceleration of this worldwide movement.

About Delic Corp

Delic is the leading psychedelic wellness platform, committed to bringing science-backed benefits to all and reframing the psychedelic conversation. The company owns and operates an umbrella of related businesses, including trusted media and e-commerce platforms like Reality Sandwich and Delic Radio, Delic Labs the only licensed entity by Health Canada to exclusively focus on research and development of psilocybin vaporization technology, Meet Delic the premiere psychedelic wellness event, and Ketamine Infusion Centers one of the largest ketamine clinics in the country. Delic is backed by a team of industry and cannabis veterans and a diverse network, whose mission is to provide education, research, high-quality products, and treatment options to the masses.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of

this release.

Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This press release contains certain “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and may also contain statements that may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only the Company’s beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of Delic’s control. Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “will continue”, “will occur” or “will be achieved”.

By identifying such information and statements in this manner, Delic is alerting the reader that such information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Delic to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such information and statements. In addition, in connection with the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release, Delic has made certain assumptions.

Should one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information or statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected.

Although Delic believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and Delic does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. All subsequent written and oral forward- looking information and statements attributable to Delic or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice.

SOURCE Delic Holdings Inc.

Investor Inquiries: Daniel Southan-Dwyer, dsd@deliccorp.com

Media Inquiries: Rich Rodriguez, rich@deliccorp.com

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Never leave home without your inhaler ;)

Cybin Files an International Patent Application Covering Psychedelic Delivery Methods

Cybin Inc. (CYBN) developed a new device that delivers psychedelic medicine through inhalation.

Inhaling psychedelics could be superior to oral administration, as it could result in optimized session timing, lower doses, and greater control for healthcare providers.

The company filed an international patent application for the method and the device, which has potential to gain coverage in 153 countries.

PDF of article

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Cybin Files an International Patent Application Covering Psychedelic Delivery Methods

Cybin Files an International Patent Application Covering Psychedelic Delivery Methods

TORONTO–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Cybin Inc. (NEO:CYBN) (NYSE AMERICAN:CYBN) (“Cybin” or the “Company”), a biotechnology company focused on progressing psychedelic therapeutics, today announced that it has filed an international patent application related to methods for the delivery of psychedelic medications by inhalation and devices for performing those methods.

The application, governed by the Patent Cooperation Treaty (“PCT”), brings the potential to obtain patent coverage in 153 countries.

The Company believes that the delivery of psychedelic medications using inhalation may overcome key obstacles encountered by traditional oral drug administration. Specifically, the Company expects inhalation delivery to facilitate optimized psychedelic session timing compared to oral administration of the same compounds, lower doses of psychedelic therapeutics while preserving efficacy, and providing health care providers with more control during psychedelic sessions.

Filed in support of the Company’s CYB004 pre-clinical development program, the PCT filing serves to increase the Company’s library of drug delivery modalities directed to optimal delivery of psychedelics and further strengthens Cybin’s growing IP portfolio.

The PCT filing also includes support for future research programs respecting various systems which seek to minimize negative side effects in psychedelic psychotherapy patients, methods that enable lower and sub-psychedelic doses without impacting treatment efficacy and increasing the long-term efficacy of psychedelic sessions.

“The continued progression of our research programs guides our discovery of new molecules and differentiating treatment approaches. Continued innovation, as demonstrated by our expanding IP portfolio, positions Cybin as a leading innovator in the development of putative psychedelic treatments for a variety of mental health conditions,” said Doug Drysdale, the company’s CEO.

About Cybin
Cybin is a leading biotechnology company focused on progressing psychedelic therapeutics by utilizing proprietary drug discovery platforms, innovative drug delivery systems, novel formulation approaches and treatment regimens for psychiatric disorders.

Cautionary Notes and Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release constitute forward-looking information. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this press release, including, without limitation, statements regarding Cybin’s future, strategy, plans, objectives, goals and targets, and any statements preceded by, followed by or that include the words “believe”, “expect”, “aim”, “intend”, “plan”, “continue”, “will”, “may”, “would”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “forecast”, “predict”, “project”, “seek”, “should” or similar expressions or the negative thereof, are forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements in this news release include statements regarding the Company’s development of innovative drug delivery systems, novel formulation approaches and potential treatment regimens for psychiatric disorders and proprietary development strategy and development of medicinal psychedelics with improved dosing efficacy and therapeutic indices to address unmet medical needs.

These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to materially differ from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Company’s operations; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; expectations regarding the size of the psychedelics market; the ability of the Company to successfully achieve its business objectives; plans for growth; political, social and environmental uncertainties; employee relations; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions in the markets where the Company operates; and the risk factors set out in the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for the three months ended June 30, 2021 and the Company’s listing statement dated November 9, 2020, which are available under the Company’s profile on www.sedar.com and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.

Cybin makes no medical, treatment or health benefit claims about Cybin’s proposed products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Health Canada or other similar regulatory authorities have not evaluated claims regarding psilocybin, psychedelic tryptamine, tryptamine derivatives or other psychedelic compounds or nutraceutical products. The efficacy of such products has not been confirmed by approved research. There is no assurance that the use of psilocybin, psychedelic tryptamine, tryptamine derivatives or other psychedelic compounds or nutraceuticals can diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Vigorous scientific research and clinical trials are needed. Cybin has not conducted clinical trials for the use of its proposed products. Any references to quality, consistency, efficacy and safety of potential products do not imply that Cybin verified such in clinical trials or that Cybin will complete such trials. If Cybin cannot obtain the approvals or research necessary to commercialize its business, it may have a material adverse effect on Cybin’s performance and operations.

The Neo Exchange Inc. has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release and is not responsible for the adequacy and accuracy of the contents herein.

Investor Contacts:
Tim Regan/Scott Eckstein
KCSA Strategic Communications
Cybin@kcsa.com

Lisa M. Wilson
In-Site Communications, Inc.
lwilson@insitecony.com

Media Contact:
John Kanakis
Cybin Inc.
John@cybin.com

Source: Cybin Inc.

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atai Life Sciences announces the launch of PsyProtix, to develop a precision psychiatry approach for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)

atai Life Sciences announces the launch of PsyProtix, to develop a precision psychiatry approach for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)

NEW YORK, Oct. 11, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — atai Life Sciences (Nasdaq: ATAI) (“atai”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company aiming to transform the treatment of mental health disorders, announced the launch of PsyProtix, a new platform company formed with Chymia LLC, a Duke University biotechnology spinout. PsyProtix is a precision psychiatry company focused on developing therapeutics for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and other mental health indications.

PsyProtix takes a precision psychiatry approach, an emerging field that aims to treat disorders by factoring each patient’s variability in genes, metabolism, environment, and lifestyle. Traditionally, psychiatric patients are diagnosed and treated based on guidelines and protocols designed for the majority, which can often lead to trial and error as physicians attempt to best meet each individual patient’s needs.

Precision psychiatry is designed to allow physicians to prescribe treatments specifically targeted to the individual, rather than relying on the trial and error approach and/or adding on treatments, such as antidepressants or antipsychotics, in the quest to achieve a therapeutic benefit.

Over 300 million people suffer with a major depressive disorder (MDD) worldwide, with a third of these patients diagnosed with TRD. Direct medical costs for TRD patients are estimated to be two to three times higher than non-TRD MDD patients. These statistics highlight the importance and potential of a mechanistically targeted therapeutic approach. PsyProtix will focus on metabolomic mechanisms underlying depression symptoms for certain patients with the goal of deriving more tailored treatments.

“Our view is that each patient is unique, meaning that any given patient will likely have specific individual needs,” said Srinivas Rao, Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder of atai Life Sciences. “This emerging technology adapts to the variability of conditions, such as depression, with the aim of allowing patients with psychiatric disorders to potentially be diagnosed and treated more accurately and efficiently according to their specific needs. It’s an honor to be collaborating with Professor Rima Kaddurah-Daouk and her team at Duke, given their great work in advancing the research of metabolomics and their study of neuropsychiatric disorders.”

Dr. Kaddurah-Daouk, is a Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences in Duke’s School of Medicine. She leads large NIH funded consortia to implement a precision medicine approach for the study of neuropsychiatric diseases where the metabolome is used to capture net influences of diet exposome gut microbiome and genome on brain health and disease.

The work licensed by Duke to start PsyProtix captures efforts of a large number of scientists working collaboratively under the Mood Disorder Precision Medicine Consortium which is led by a Duke principal investigator (PI). Their approach has the promise to potentially optimize the selection of drugs most effective for each patient, easing the healing journey in important and impactful ways.

About atai Life Sciences
atai is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company aiming to transform the treatment of mental health disorders. atai was founded in 2018 as a response to the significant unmet need and lack of innovation in the mental health treatment landscape. atai is dedicated to acquiring, incubating and efficiently developing innovative therapeutics to treat depression, anxiety, addiction, and other mental health disorders. atai’s business model combines funding, technology, scientific and regulatory expertise with a focus on psychedelic therapy and other drugs with differentiated safety profiles and therapeutic potential. By pooling resources and best practices, atai aims to responsibly accelerate the development of new medicines across its companies, seeking to effectively treat and ultimately heal mental health disorders. atai’s mission is to bridge the gap between what the mental healthcare system currently provides and what patients need. atai has offices in New York, London, and Berlin. For more information, please visit www.atai.life.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any express or implied statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, including, without limitation, the important factors discussed under the caption “Risk Factors” in atai’s prospectus pursuant to Rule 424(b) filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on June 21, 2021, as such factors may be updated from time to time in atai’s other filings with the SEC. atai disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this press release, other than to the extent required by applicable law.

Investor Contact:
Greg Weaver
atai – Chief Financial Officer
Email: greg.weaver@atai.life

Media Contact:
Camilla Dormer
atai – VP of Communications
Email: press@atai.life