Meizon Innovations: reshaping the future of dementia and autism care
At the forefront of groundbreaking research in dementia and autism, Meizon Innovations is a shining example of transformative discoveries. On a mission to extend the health span and improve the quality of life for affected individuals, Meizon Innovations is making significant strides in developing novel treatments for these complex conditions, focusing on early intervention.
An unexpected discovery
Dr Wah Chin Boon, co-founder, CSO/COO of Meizon Innovations, made a remarkable discovery of two natural molecules with the potential of reversing dementia and alleviating autism symptoms. “I stumbled across both molecules like any great discovery, which is by accident. I was trying to understand why my results didn’t fit my hypothesis and then, drilling into the problem and my data, we found this solution,” Wah Chin recalls.
These molecules have shown promise in addressing cognitive decline, behaviour deficit and repetitive behaviours associated with these conditions in mouse models, offering a gateway to new treatment opportunities.
From academic aspirations to the startup journey
From a young age, Wah Chin gravitated towards science and experimenting, guiding her academic pursuit in biochemistry. After earning a BSc (Hons) from the National University of Singapore, she relocated to Australia with a PhD scholarship at The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (The Florey). Following a postdoctoral position at Prince Henry’s Institue (now Hudson Institute), Wah Chin returned to The Florey in 2008 to lead the Steroid Neurobiology Lab. Earlier this year, she completed executive education at Harvard Business School to prepare herself for the role of COO at Meizon Innovations.
Leading Meizon Innovations’ commercialisation efforts is CEO Liz Ferentinos, who harbours a strong entrepreneurial background. “My passion is to impact, help make change and support incredible researchers,” Liz says.
Connected through the University of Melbourne’s commercialisation team, Liz was introduced to Wah Chin’s findings, which deeply resonated with her personal experience of losing her mother to dementia. “I can't bring back my mum and other people that I've loved and seen pass away from dementia and other chronic diseases, so our mission has always been to bring these incredible treatments to people,” Liz shared.
Together with their Co-Founder, Professor Albert Frauman, the Meizon Innovations team embraces the world of science and commercialisation to translate their research into meaningful solutions.
Milestones and future directions
Meizon Innovations has raised over AUD 8 million and reached several key milestones that highlight their progress and potential. As Australia’s first biotechnology company to submit in vitro toxicology safety report to FDA, they received commendations from the FDA for their organ-on-a-chip approach and research efforts during the Pre-IND Submission Meeting.
Currently, Meizon Innovations is raising funds for a six-month animal toxicology program, as requested by the FDA, and preparing for phase one clinical trials. Their therapeutics, developed following rigorous testing, have been granted U.S. patents, marking a significant milestone in their research journey.
Recently, Meizon Innovations was granted the rare pediatric orphan drug designation for Niemann Pick disease type C, a rare form of childhood dementia. This designation is expected to accelerate the clinical development process, bringing the company one step closer to improving the lives of affected children and their families. “We lose just as many children to childhood dementia as we do to cancer. I saw my mum go through it, but my mum lived a long life, had children, had everything. These children don't have that,” Liz shared.
Helping carers
While the driving force behind Meizon Innovations’ research is a profound desire to extend the health span and improve the quality of life of affected individuals, Wah Chin and Liz also recognise the impact that their work will have for carers. Liz shares, “I remember I used to leave the nursing home and then the minute I got back into the car, my mum would call me, “When are you going to come and visit me? Then I'd just cry all the way home.” For Liz, the potential benefits to loved ones are just as important: “If we can try to give any benefit of not just body, but mind back, we will help the patients as well as the carers.”
TRAM experience
Wah Chin connected with TRAM Program Manager, Masha Pelipas, during a module at Harvard Business School, where she was introduced to TRAM Air. As Meizon Innovations prepares for their third round of fundraising, they aim to consolidate their plans with TRAM’s support. Wah Chin has found the experience to be invaluable, engaging in conversations with TRAM mentors, Byron McCaughey and Andrew Nash, who have provided her with guidance as she transitions into the role of CSO/COO.
Looking ahead, Meizon Innovations is focused on gaining regulatory approval for their drugs designed to assist individuals affected by dementia and autism, striving to make a meaningful impact on humanity.
Read more about our 2024 TRAM Air cohort HERE
If you’re interested in applying for TRAM Air in 2025, please fill out our expression of interest form or email Masha Pelipas, TRAM Air Program Manager: maria.pelipas@unimelb.edu.au.
Connect with Meizon Innovations:
Founder: Wah Chin Boon
Cofounders: Liz Ferentinos & Albert Frauman
If you would like to stay in touch or receive updates from the team, sign up to Meizon Innovations' newsletter via their website: https://meizon.health