Celmed BioSciences

Celmed BioSciences was a Montreal-based biotechnology company specializing in the development of cell therapies and photodynamic technologies for oncology and autoimmune diseases. The company's core technology, Theralux, utilized an ex vivo photodynamic treatment process to eliminate specific cell populations, such as cancerous cells or T-cells responsible for Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD). Originally a subsidiary of MDS Inc., Celmed was acquired by the Italian biopharmaceutical firm Newron Pharmaceuticals in 2006. This acquisition allowed Newron to diversify its portfolio beyond small molecules into cell-based therapies, particularly for central nervous system disorders like Parkinson's disease. Celmed's lead program, Theralux, was in Phase 2 clinical trials at the time of the acquisition, targeting patients undergoing bone marrow transplants.