GreenSky Capital Inc. announced this week that it led a $2.3M seed financing round for Nanovista Inc., a start-up company co-founded by Techna’s Dr. David Jaffray, Dr. Jinzi Zheng, and Dr. Christine Allen of the University of Toronto.
Nanovista is developing nanoparticle-based visualization agents designed to enhance image-guided cancer therapy including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. The long-lasting nanoparticle systems work to enhance a clinician’s ability to visualize a tumour across modalities, such as with CT images for planning while remaining to help guide removal with near-infrared fluorescence for visual guidance.
The funds raised will be used to complete the final stage of pre-clinical studies and a Phase I clinical trial in head and neck and lung cancer surgical patients.
Nanovista also welcomed Steven Chackowicz as its new CEO. A serial entrepreneur, he has experience in leadership roles in Exact Imaging, Aspect Imaging, and VisualSonics. Michael List, Principal at GreenSky Capital added “The Nanovista team have developed a best-in-class technology; adding a CEO with Steven’s experience makes this a compelling investment and an exciting addition to our portfolio.”
Full disclosure: UHN has an ownership position in Nanovista.