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Nova Mentis Autism Clinical Study Approved by Institutional Review Board

February 25, 2021 6:00 am Published by 

Novamentis

 

Vancouver, British Columbia – February 25, 2021 – Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. (CSE: NOVA) (FSE: HN3Q) (OTCQB: NMLSF) (“NOVA” or the “Company”), a leader in the development of psilocybin and other psychedelic compounds with broad cognitive, behavioral, and peripheral physiologic effects, has received approval for its first clinical program in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The Company has obtained Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval of its protocol for a US-based Observational Study (NM-101): “Microbiotic Diversity in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Improving Diagnostics by Differentiating Subtypes.”

“It’s exciting to have ethical approval for our clinical efforts, as this externally validates the unmet clinical need and the importance of this research,” stated Julia V. Perederiy, PhD, NOVA’s Lead Scientist and Principal Investigator on this study.

The Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) are ethics committees designed to help the FDA and other regulatory agencies ensure that companies employ rigorous protocol standards and adhere to strict regulations surrounding the ethical treatment of human subjects. NOVA’s IRB approval represents significant progress along the drug approval pathway, gathering data to support conversations with regulatory agencies and to help design upcoming ASD clinical trials for NOVA’s lead drug candidates.

The objective of NM-101 is to identify subtle biological patterns in ASD that may underlie known behavioral phenotypes. Positive results will help improve: (1) accuracy of diagnosis, (2) design of next-generation therapeutic molecules, and (3) monitoring of treatment response. Leveraging proprietary machine learning algorithms, NOVA will incorporate diverse biomarker datasets into a Diagnostic Index, which will include gut microflora, epigenetics, and cognitive/behavioral evaluations.

About Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. is a Canadian-based biotechnology company that is focused on the emerging field of serotonergic psychedelic medicine, such as psilocybin and its related tryptamine derivatives. The Company is a global leader in this field by integrating the latest state-of-the-art medical and scientific technology into its drug development program. The goal is to diagnose and treat debilitating chronic conditions that have unmet medical needs, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

For further information on the Company, please visit https://www.novamentis.ca or email info@novamentis.ca.

On Behalf of the Board
Will Rascan, President & CEO
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.

Phone: 778-819-0244
Toll Free: 1-833-542-5323
Twitter: @novamentislsc
Instagram: @novamentislsc
Facebook: @novamentislsc

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Nova Mentis Life Science’s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.

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Nova Mentis Expands Pre-Clinical Development Pipeline

February 18, 2021 6:00 am Published by 

Novamentis

 

Company Begins Fragile X Syndrome Treatment with its Proprietary Psilocybin Drug

Vancouver, British Columbia – February 18 2021 – Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. (CSE: NOVA) (FSE: HN3Q) (OTCQB: LIBFF) (“NOVA” or the “Company”), a leader in the development of serotonergic psychedelic compounds, is pleased to announce that the Company is expanding its pre-clinical program to develop a novel diagnostic and treatment approach to fragile X syndrome (FXS), a persistent unmet medical need.

FXS is a rare genetic disorder characterized by mild-moderate intellectual disability along with behavioral and learning challenges and various physical characteristics. FXS is considered the most common cause of inherited mental disability and the most known genetic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). There is currently no cure for FXS and early intervention is recommended, including special education, behavioral therapy, speech therapy, etc., as it provides the best opportunity for developing a range of skills (*Hall, 2008). Medications are recommended for associated seizures, mood problems and aggressive behavior.

“My interest in developing the fragile X model used in my lab is to show how the behavioral treatment findings in a preclinical animal model can be translated into effective clinically meaningful therapy for people with ASD,” stated Dr. Viviana Trezza, PhD, Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy.

Current pharmacological treatment centres on managing problem behaviors and psychiatric symptoms associated with FXS, however, as there has been little research done in this specific population, the evidence to support the use of these medications in individuals with FXS is poor (*Rueda, 2009).

NOVA plans to conduct the FXS study alongside its currently ongoing prenatal valproic acid (VPA) rodent model of ASD with Dr. Trezza. During the treatment phase of the study, NOVA will administer its proprietary psilocybin drug, PLZ-1013 to test its potential efficacy in FXS and to determine therapeutic dosage parameters for planned human studies.

“We are delighted to have expanded our pre-clinical development pipeline to treat this unmet medical need, fragile X syndrome. Psilocybin, with its many mechanisms of action, has the potential to yield a multifaceted approach to treat this rare genetic disorder,” stated Marvin S. Hausman MD, Chairman of NOVA’s Scientific Advisory Board.

NOVA intends to collect fecal bacterial data from the FXS study to continue proving out its proprietary ASD Microbiome Diagnostic Index. It is the intent of NOVA to identify potential genetic subsets within the syndrome called fragile X that may specifically respond, with positive statistical results, to treatment with psilocybin and related tryptamine derivatives.

As there are no currently approved therapeutic treatments for FXS, novel investigational techniques may hold promise in managing and treating common symptoms. For example, Zynerba Pharmaceuticals Inc. has received U.S. FDA Orphan Drug designation for the use of cannabidiol (CBD) as a treatment of FXS via their pharmaceutically produced CBD formulation as a patent-protected permeation-enhanced transdermal gel.

About the Microbiome Diagnostic Index (MDI)

The MDI is based on identifying specific bacterial species within bodily tissues and fluids. Taxonomic profiling (diversity and abundance) is performed using a complex technique for parallel sequencing of DNA from the organisms present in the sample. NOVA intends to obtain data on the complex gut microbiome in healthy individuals and animals, and link changes in the microbiome to specific diseases and treatment.

This index is being developed with the assistance of Dr. Kyle H. Ambert, a member of NOVA’s Scientific Advisory Board. Dr. Ambert is currently Director of Data Science at Nike Inc. and has extensive experience in data analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence and applied analytics. It is the goal of the Company to utilize machine learning to create a statistically objective biomarker program to measure psychedelic treatment response.  As drug design and discovery becomes more personalized, machine learning methods are poised to become a central component of the pharmaceutical development workflow.

*Hall SS, Burns DD, Lightbody AA, Reiss AL (August 2008). “Longitudinal changes in intellectual development in children with Fragile X syndrome”. Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology. 36 (6): 927–39.

*Rueda JR, Ballesteros J, Tejada MI (October 2009). “Systematic review of pharmacological treatments in fragile X syndrome”. BMC Neurology. 9: 53. doi:10.1186/1471-2377-9-53. PMC 2770029. PMID 19822023

About Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.

Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. is a Canadian-based biotechnology company that is focused on the emerging field of serotonergic psychedelic medicine, such as psilocybin and its related tryptamine derivatives. The Company is a global leader in this field by integrating the latest state-of-the-art medical and scientific technology into its drug development program. The goal is to diagnose and treat debilitating chronic conditions that have unmet medical needs, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

For further information on the Company, please visit https://www.novamentis.ca or email info@novamentis.ca.

On Behalf of the Board

Will Rascan, President & CEO
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.

Phone: 778-819-0244
Toll Free: 1-833-542-5323
Twitter: @novamentislsc
Instagram: @novamentislsc
Facebook: @novamentislsc

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Nova Mentis Life Science’s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.

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Nova Mentis Appoints Gary R. Harlem to Scientific Advisory Board

February 11, 2021 6:00 am Published by 

Novamentis

Vancouver, British Columbia – February 11, 2021 – Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. (CSE: NOVA) (FSE: HN3Q) (OTCPK: LIBFF) (“NOVA” or the “Company”), a leader in the development of serotonergic psychedelic compounds, is pleased to announce that it has appointed Gary R. Harlem to its Scientific Advisory Board, effective immediately.

Mr. Harlem is the founder and CEO of Altucell Biotech, a cellular engineering and biotech company focused on fulfilling a large “unmet need” in cell, molecular and regenerative therapy for treatment of diabetes and other autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases.

“We’re excited to expand the breadth of expertise on our Scientific Advisory Board with the addition of Mr. Harlem, who brings to our team his knowledge of exploring novel cell therapy approaches to autoimmune, chronic inflammatory and degenerative disorders,” said Dr. Marvin S. Hausman MD, Chairman of NOVA’s Scientific Advisory Board. “I look forward to working with him to develop the therapeutic application of psilocybin in diabetes, chronic bowel disease and liver disease.”

Signal transduction is the term used by scientists to describe the reaction that occurs when a compound binds to a cell receptor. Different molecules use different cell receptors. Psilocybin and psilocin use serotonin receptors to cause their physiologic effects. Several serotonin receptors including 5-HT2A belong to a family called G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) (*Kroeze, 2003). GPCRs are one of the largest and most diverse families of proteins in mammals. Most of 5-HT is synthesized in the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals and is an important regulator of gut activity.

The majority of preclinical and clinical studies on psilocybin have focused on its central nervous system effect. However, brain-derived serotonin accounts for only approximately 5 per cent of total body serotonin produced (*Berger, 2009).

“Although the impact of serotonin produced in the central nervous system on the regulation of behavior and physiology has been in the center of scientific interest for decades, until recently peripheral serotonin has been ignored. Lately it became clear that the serotonin system in the periphery regulates multiple physiological aspects independently of the brain-derived serotonin. In particular, peripheral serotonin plays a pivotal function in the regulation of glucose and lipid homeostasis by acting on different organs and cell types.” (*El-Merahbi, 2015).

In the body the vast majority of serotonin is produced by enterochromaffin cells of the gut. The gut-derived serotonin (GDS) can act locally in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract or it can enter the blood circulation (*Berger, 2009). One can hypothesize that psilocybin and/or its related tryptamine derivatives could influence the course of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, colorectal cancer and diverticular disease (*Manocha, 2012). Another potential application is fatty liver disease (NASH), which is an unmet medical need.

Mr. Harlem is an accomplished entrepreneur focused on the health and wellness sector, launching several companies in the nutritional supplement and health food markets.

“I am eager to join NOVA’s Scientific Advisory Board and utilize my experience running a global cell and molecular therapy company to help advance the innovative research underway to improve the lives of autism spectrum disorder patients,” said Gary R. Harlem.

Mr. Harlem has a degree in Education from Dowling College in New York and began his career as a special education teacher. He became interested in exploring novel treatment strategies for autoimmune diseases when his son was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of 10.

*Berger, M. Gray, JA. Roth, BL. 2009. The expanded biology of serotonin
Annu. Rev. Med., 60: 355-366.

*El-Merahbi, R. et al. 2015. The roles of peripheral serotonin in metabolic homeostasis. FEBS Letters. 589(15): 1728-1734.

*Kroeze, WK. Sheffler DJ. Roth BL. 2003. G-protein-coupled receptors at a glance. Journal of Cell Science. 116(24):4867-4869.

*Manocha, M. and Khan, WI. 2012. Serotonin and GI Disorders: An Update on Clinical and Experimental Studies. Clin Transl Gastroenterol. 2012 Apr; 3(4): e13.

About Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. is a Canadian-based biotechnology company that is focused on the emerging field of serotonergic psychedelic medicine, such as psilocybin and its related tryptamine derivatives. The Company is a global leader in this field by integrating the latest state-of-the-art medical and scientific technology into its drug development program. The goal is to diagnose and treat debilitating chronic conditions that have unmet medical needs, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

For further information on the Company, please visit https://www.novamentis.ca or email info@novamentis.ca.

On Behalf of the Board
Will Rascan, President & CEO
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.

Phone: 778-819-0244
Toll Free: 1-833-542-5323
Twitter: @novamentislsc
Instagram: @novamentislsc
Facebook: @novamentislsc

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Nova Mentis Life Science’s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.

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Nova Mentis Psilocybin Approved for Shipment to Italy / Autism Treatment Study Underway

February 9, 2021 6:00 am Published by 

Novamentis

Vancouver, British Columbia – February 09, 2021 – Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. (CSE: NOVA) (FSE: HN3Q) (OTCPK: LIBFF) (“NOVA” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that its proprietary drug psilocybin has been shipped to the laboratory of Dr. Viviana Trezza, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy. NOVA was notified by its U.S. drug manufacturer that the required controlled substances export application had been approved by the U. S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Division (DEA).

The psilocybin will be evaluated in the ongoing prenatal valproic acid (VPA) model of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this model, which is well accepted by neuroscientists, pregnant rats are exposed to VPA and the resultant offspring have ASD behavioral symptoms (*Tartaglione, 2019). This animal model mimics the behavioral and social deficits seen in human ASD.

“Psychedelic research is currently undergoing a renaissance and we, at NOVA, are exuberant that the U.S. DEA has seen fit to approve the shipment of our proprietary psilocybin to Italy to be evaluated in ASD,” stated Marvin S. Hausman MD, Chairman, NOVA’s Scientific Advisory Board. “We look forward with great anticipation to be able to report that our drug ameliorated the social behavioral abnormalities in ASD. The therapeutic doses that will be established in the animal model will be extrapolated to a human study that is currently being designed.”

The shipped psilocybin, greater than 95 per cent purity, will be used to treat ASD offspring that have severe behavioral symptoms. This preclinical ASD diagnostic and treatment study began in January 2021 and fecal specimens are being collected to measure changes that occur in the microbial environment within the intestines of pregnant mothers and offspring after VPA exposure of the pregnant mothers.

A NOVA ASD Microbiome Diagnostic Index is being generated that will be potentially applicable to establish subsets of disorders to be treated with psychedelic compounds within the human spectrum called ASD. Animals with severe ASD behavioral symptoms are scheduled in the current study to undergo treatment with NOVA’s proprietary psilocybin. Comparisons will be made to control animals. The treatment phase will begin once ASD symptomatic pups have been weened away from the mother.

The study is designed to determine the efficacy of psilocybin in ASD and to establish therapeutic amounts of the drug to be used in an upcoming human trial. NOVA intends to file an Investigational New Drug (IND) application with U.S. and European regulatory agencies as soon as possible to begin Phase 1 human trials.

*Tartaglione, A.T., Schiavi, S., Calamandrei, G. and Trezza, V. 2019. Prenatal valproate in rodents as a tool to understand the neural underpinnings of social dysfunctions in autism spectrum disorder. Neuropharmacology 159,107477.

About Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. is a Canadian based biotechnology company that is focused on the emerging field of psychedelic medicine. The Company aims to become a global leader in this field by integrating the latest state-of-the-art medical and scientific technology into its drug development program. The goal is to diagnose and treat debilitating chronic conditions that have unmet medical needs, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

For further information on the Company, please visit https://www.novamentis.ca or email info@novamentis.ca.

On Behalf of the Board
Will Rascan, President & CEO
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.
Phone: 778-819-0244
Toll Free: 1-833-542-5323
Twitter: @novamentislsc
Instagram: @novamentislsc
Facebook: @novamentislsc

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Nova Mentis Life Science’s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.

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Nova Launches Preclinical Autism Spectrum Disorder Therapeutic Study Develops Microbiome Diagnostic Index

January 26, 2021 6:00 am Published by 

Develops Microbiome Diagnostic Index
Novamentis

Vancouver, British Columbia – January 26, 2021 – Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. (CSE: NOVA) (FSE: HN3Q) (OTCPK: LIBFF) (“NOVA” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has commenced the diagnostic and treatment phase of its ongoing preclinical model study of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).   In this model, which is well accepted by neuroscientists, pregnant rats are exposed to valproic acid (VPA) and the resultant offspring have ASD behavioral symptoms.

NOVA had previously identified statistically significant changes in levels of inflammatory molecules, called cytokines, and in certain bacterial species within the intestinal microbiome of the ASD animals. In the current study, the Company will continue its measurement of the microbiome and cytokines in the animals with severe ASD behavioral symptoms and comparisons will be made to control animals. A treatment phase with its proprietary psilocybin compound is scheduled to begin in February 2021.

NOVA is also pleased to inform the medical community that the Company is actively designing human clinical observational study protocols to further confirm its Microbiome Diagnostic Index in ASD. Clinical protocols will be submitted for Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval in the U.S. and Europe as well as appropriate regulatory authorities.

“I am excited with the recent progress made by NOVA scientists, especially the announcement of our ASD psychedelic treatment study and the associated clinical application of our newly developed Microbiome Diagnostic Index,” stated Marvin S. Hausman MD, Chairman of NOVA’s Scientific Advisory Board. “We’re studying the microbiome-related correlates of VPA-induced Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) associated behaviors in a rodent model. In particular, we will be looking at temporal changes in the biome in newborn rodents prior to weaning, which has direct application to the human disorder.”

The utilization of the VPA ASD behavioral rat model was based on several facts. ASD is a developmental disorder whose main features are impairments in social interaction and verbal/non-verbal communication, together with stereotyped patterns of behavior. Despite scientific and clinical studies to date, the causes of ASD are still unknown. What is known is that human prenatal exposure to the drug valproate (VPA) is associated with increased risk of neurodevelopmental problems, cognitive deficits, and autism in children.

Dr. Trezza has shown that “a single prenatal injection of VPA in rodents results in behavioral impairments resembling the core signs of ASD, supporting the high face validity for prenatal VPA as an animal model of autism.” – Tartaglione, 2019(1). Several other research groups confirm these findings.

NOVA’s scientific premise is that the autism pathway induced by VPA may involve similar factors causing other chronic human diseases, including genetic, environmental chemicals, infections, neuroinflammation (oxidative stress), immune system dysfunction and alterations in the microbiome.

The Microbiome Diagnostic Index is being developed with the assistance of Dr. Kyle H. Ambert, a member of the NOVA Scientific Advisory Board.   Dr. Ambert is currently Director of Data Science at Nike, Inc., and has extensive experience in data analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and applied analytics.  It is the goal of the Company to utilize machine learning to create a statistically objective biomarker program to measure psychedelic treatment response.  As drug design and discovery becomes more personalized, machine learning methods are poised to become a central component of the pharmaceutical development workflow.

(1) Tartaglione, A.T., Schiavi, S., Calamandrei, G. and Trezza, V. 2019. Prenatal valproate in rodents as a tool to understand the neural underpinnings of social dysfunctions in autism spectrum disorder. Neuropharmacology 159,107477.

About Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.

Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. is a Canadian based biotechnology company that is focused on the emerging field of psychedelic medicine. The Company aims to become a global leader in this field by integrating the latest state-of-the-art medical and scientific technology into its drug development program. The goal is to diagnose and treat debilitating chronic conditions that have unmet medical needs, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

For further information on the Company, please visit https://www.novamentis.ca or email info@novamentis.ca.

On Behalf of the Board
Will Rascan, President & CEO
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.

Phone: 778-819-0244
Toll Free: 1-833-542-5323
Twitter: @novamentislsc
Instagram: @novamentislsc
Facebook: @novamentislsc

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Nova Mentis Life Science’s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.

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Novamind Announces Marketing Services Agreements

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / January 26, 2021 / Novamind Inc., (CSE: NM) (“Novamind” or the “Company”) a mental health company specialized in psychedelic medicine, announces that is has entered into marketing services agreements with Octagon Media Corp. (“Octagon”) (the “Octagon Marketing Agreement”), AGORA Internet Relations Corp (“AGORA”) (the “AGORA Marketing Agreement”), and a consulting agreement with Venture North Capital Inc. (“VNC”) (the “VNC Agreement”).

In connection with the services provided by Octagon under the Octagon Marketing Agreement, the Company will pay Octagon a cash fee of US$123,000 upon signing, as well as grant Octagon a 12-month option to purchase 100,000 common shares in the capital of the company (the “Shares”) at a price of CAN$1.65 per Share, which will vest fully at signing, and 400,000 warrants to purchase Shares at a price of CAN$1.65 per Share for a period of twelve months from the date of issuance.

The Company also announces that it has entered into a 12-month online marketing services agreement with AGORA Internet Relations Corp., to carry out an online marketing campaign for the purposes of targeting new potential investors that would be specifically interested in the Company’s business model, as well as engaging current shareholders.

In connection with the services provided by AGORA under the AGORA Marketing Agreement, the Company will pay AGORA aggregate consideration of CAN$75,000 plus applicable taxes. The consideration is to be paid via the issuance of Shares. CAN$15,000 of Shares are payable upon commencement of the AGORA Marketing Agreement on January 15, 2021, in consideration of the setup and creation of tools to be used in connection with the services, and an additional CAN$15,000 of Shares are payable every three months thereafter until the end of the AGORA Marketing Agreement’s term.

The number and deemed price of the Shares to be issued will be determined after the date services are provided in each period and are to be calculated using the closing price of the Shares on the Canadian Securities Exchange on each date on which Shares are to be issued.

The Company also announces that it has entered into a consulting agreement with Venture North Capital Inc., pursuant to which VNC will provide the Company with investor relations, marketing and communications services for a 6-month term.

In connection with the services provided by VNC under the VNC Agreement, the Company agreed to pay VNC a monthly cash payment of CAN$7,500 per month for six months. The Company has also agreed to issue VNC warrants to purchase 100,000 Shares at a price of CAN$1.65 per Share for a period of twelve months from the date of issuance.

About Novamind
Novamind is a leading mental health company enabling safe access to psychedelic medicine through a network of clinics, retreats, and clinical research sites. Novamind provides ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and other novel treatments through its network of Cedar Psychiatry clinics and operates Cedar Clinical Research, a contract research organization specialized in clinical trials and evidence-based research for psychedelic medicine. Both Cedar Psychiatry and Cedar Clinical Research are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Novamind. For more information on how Novamind is enhancing mental wellness and guiding people through their entire healing journey, visit novamind.ca.

Contact Information
Novamind
Yaron Conforti, CEO and Director
Telephone: +1 (647) 953 9512

Bill Mitoulas, Investor Relations
Email: bill@novamind.ca

Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include the risks detailed from time to time in the Company’s public disclosure. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements as expressly required by applicable laws.

None of the securities discussed in this news released have been or will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws, and any securities issued are anticipated to be issued in reliance upon available exemptions from such registration requirements. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.

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Nova Mentis to be Listed in the First-Ever Psychedelic Index

January 25, 2021 6:00 am Published by 

Novamentis

Vancouver, British Columbia – January 25, 2021 – Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. (CSE: NOVA) (FSE: HN3Q) (OTCPK: LIBFF) (“NOVA” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has been included in the world’s first North American Psychedelic Index. Based on this index, The Horizon Psychedelic Stock Index ETF is expected to commence trading Jan. 27, 2021 under ticker “PSYK” on the NEO Exchange.

“NOVA is developing psilocybin and mushroom-based tryptamine derivatives for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), an unmet medical need. We have started a preclinical study in a rat model of ASD and are planning to begin psilocybin treatment of the animals in February 2021. Submission of an IND to regulatory authorities and Phase 1 human safety studies are planned for later this year,” said Dr. Marvin S. Hausman MD, Chairman of NOVA’s Scientific Advisory Board.

“We are making important progress as we bring psychedelic research into the 21st century using current medical advancements in diagnosis, treatment, and development of objective biomarkers to confirm therapeutic responses,” he continued.

The North American Psychedelic Stock Index is provided by German-based index provider Solactive @ www.solactive.com

About Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.

Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. is a Canadian based biotechnology company that is focused on the emerging field of psychedelic medicine. The Company aims to become a global leader in this field by integrating the latest state-of-the-art medical and scientific technology into its drug development program. The goal is to diagnose and treat debilitating chronic conditions that have unmet medical needs, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

For further information on the Company, please visit https://www.novamentis.ca or email info@novamentis.ca.

On Behalf of the Board
Will Rascan, President & CEO
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.

Phone: 778-819-0244
Toll Free: 1-833-542-5323
Twitter: @novamentislsc
Instagram: @novamentislsc
Facebook: @novamentislsc

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Nova Mentis Life Science’s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.

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Nova Mentis Appoints Dr. Julia V. Perederiy, PhD to Scientific Advisory Board

January 13, 2021 9:49 am Published by 

Novamentis

Vancouver, British Columbia – January 13, 2021 – Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. (CSE: NOVA) (FSE: HN3Q) (OTCPK: LIBFF) (“NOVA” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has appointed Dr. Julia V. Perederiy, PhD to its Scientific Advisory Board, effective immediately.

Specializing in early-stage technologies and data-driven corporate strategy, Dr. Perederiy has scientific and commercialization expertise in biological innovation, from single-cell analytics to systems-level therapeutics.

“Dr. Perederiy is an established research neuroscientist whose experience will prove valuable in the upcoming preclinical autism spectrum disorder (ASD) psilocybin treatment study,” stated Dr. Marvin S. Hausman MD, Chairman of NOVA’s Scientific Advisory Board. “This study is designed to establish therapeutic doses of psilocybin that can be used in future human ASD trials.”

Dr. Perederiy is an author of multiple peer-reviewed publications, including high-impact studies on brain plasticity in neurodegeneration and on the neurogenetics of autism. In addition to her academic positions, Julia is an experienced entrepreneur and management consultant, helping biotechnology companies with business planning, market research, and fundraising.

“I am proud to join NOVA’s Scientific Advisory Board and to provide my scientific and strategic expertise as we continue to shed light on entheogens and their clinical potential to ameliorate complex socio-behavioral conditions like autism and chronic inflammatory diseases outside the central nervous system.”

Dr. Perederiy holds Bachelor’s degrees in Neurobiology and Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, a Master’s in Technology Entrepreneurship from University of Portland, and a PhD in Neuroscience from Oregon Health & Science University.

About Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.

Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. is a Canadian based biotechnology company that is focused on the emerging field of psychedelic medicine. The Company aims to become a global leader in this field by integrating the latest state-of-the-art medical and scientific technology into its drug development program. The goal is to diagnose and treat debilitating chronic conditions that have unmet medical needs, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

For further information on the Company, please visit https://www.novamentis.ca or email info@novamentis.ca.

On Behalf of the Board

Will Rascan, President & CEO
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.
Phone: 778-819-0244
Toll Free: 1-833-542-5323
Twitter: @novamentislsc
Instagram: @novamentislsc
Facebook: @novamentislsc

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Nova Mentis Life Science’s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.

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Nova Mentis Appoints Dr. Kyle Ambert to Scientific Advisory Board

January 4, 2021 6:00 am Published by 

Novamentis

Vancouver, British Columbia – January 4, 2021 – Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. (CSE: NOVA) (FSE: HN3Q) (OTCPK: LIBFF) (“NOVA” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has appointed Dr. Kyle H. Ambert, PhD to its Scientific Advisory Board, effective immediately. Dr. Ambert has also agreed to become a consultant to NOVA and will assist the Company in designing preclinical and clinical autism spectrum disorder (ASD) studies and analyzing their results.

Dr. Ambert is currently Director of Data Science at Nike, Inc., and has extensive experience in data analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence and applied analytics. His previous experience includes postings with the National Library of Medicine and Intel Corp. Dr. Ambert holds a PhD in Biomedical Informatics from Oregon Health & Science University.

Dr. Marvin S. Hausman MD, Chairman of the NOVA Scientific Advisory Board commented, “I am extremely pleased to welcome Dr. Ambert to our team.  His enviable expertise in artificial intelligence and data science will be invaluable as we continue our research into autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Dr. Ambert’s knowledge of applied machine learning and deep learning represents a major addition to the Company as we develop the novel, proprietary ‘Pilz ASD Correlate’, a statistically objective biomarker program to measure psychedelic treatment response.”

As drug design and discovery becomes more personalized, machine learning methods are poised to become a central component of the pharmaceutical development workflow.

“I am honored to be asked to partner with a company doing such important work. By introducing machine learning and advanced analytics into NOVA’s approach, I am confident we will contribute ground-breaking discoveries to improve the lives of ASD patients,” said Dr. Ambert.

About Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. is a Canadian based biotechnology company that is focused on the emerging field of psychedelic medicine. The Company aims to become a global leader in this field by integrating the latest state-of-the-art medical and scientific technology into its drug development program. The goal is to diagnose and treat debilitating chronic conditions that have unmet medical needs, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

For further information on the Company, please visit https://www.novamentis.ca or email info@novamentis.ca.

On Behalf of the Board
Will Rascan, President & CEO

Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.
Phone: 778-819-0244
Toll Free: 1-833-542-5323
Twitter: @novamentislsc
Instagram: @novamentislsc
Facebook: @novamentislsc

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Nova Mentis Life Science’s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.

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Nova Mentis Expands Psychedelic Drug Pipeline

December 29, 2020 2:52 pm Published by 

Novamentis

Vancouver, British Columbia – December 29, 2020 – Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. (CSE: NOVA) (FSE: HN3Q) (OTCPK: LIBFF) (“NOVA” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has added two additional psychedelic compounds to its drug portfolio. NOVA has contracted with its U.S. partner to begin manufacturing the active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), baeocystin and aeruginascin. NOVA is currently developing C-GMP API psilocybin at its U.S. partner’s facility which has highly trained quality control staff on site and certifies all release testing prior to human studies. Per contractual agreements, NOVA has ownership of the API Drug Master Files (“DMF’s”), which will be used for regulatory submission prior to commencing human clinical trials.

“The availability of greater than 95 percent pure synthetic psilocybin, baeocystin and aeruginascin will allow the creation of unique combinatory formulations with potential therapeutic applications to various subsets of ASD,” stated Marvin S. Hausman MD, Chairman of NOVA’s Scientific Advisory Board. “Furthermore, the availability of these compounds will allow our collaborative scientific chemists to develop technology to deliver our proprietary formulations to organ systems outside of the brain. Are there tryptamine related therapeutic receptors in the small intestine, colon and liver that need to be discovered?”

Baeocystin is an analog of psilocybin and is found in most psilocybin mushrooms along with other minor tryptamine derivatives. Aeruginascin is also a tryptamine derivative and an analog of psilocybin, but it occurs naturally within a different mushroom, Inocybe aeruginascens. The pharmacological effects of both of these compounds are not well understood and anecdotal usage reports reveal different euphoric experiences.

It is theorized that psilocybin and mushroom tryptamine derivatives, such as baeocystin and aeruginascin, when utilized in concert, may produce what is referred to as an “entourage effect”. This theory was proposed for cannabis compounds but essentially is applicable to other compounds within natural foods that work together to create unique effects and benefits.

Pending final production of the additional API compounds, NOVA plans to test their efficacy and potential “entourage effect” related therapeutic benefits in the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) preclinical rat model that was designed by Dr. Viviana Trezza at Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy.

About Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.
Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. is a Canadian based biotechnology company that is focused on the emerging field of psychedelic medicine. The Company aims to become a global leader in this field by integrating the latest state-of-the-art medical and scientific technology into its drug development program. The goal is to diagnose and treat debilitating chronic conditions that have unmet medical needs, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

For further information on the Company, please visit https://www.novamentis.ca or email info@novamentis.ca.

On Behalf of the Board
Will Rascan, President & CEO

Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.
Phone: 778-819-0244
Toll Free: 1-833-542-5323

Twitter: @novamentislsc
Instagram: @novamentislsc
Facebook: @novamentislsc

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Nova Mentis Life Science’s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “intends,” “estimates,” “projects,” “potential” and similar expressions, or that events or conditions “will,” “would,” “may,” “could” or “should” occur.