Director, PolyU-BGI Joint Research Centre for Genomics and Synthetic Biology in Global Ocean Resources; Chair Professor of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Food Science and Nutrition; and Cally Kwong Mei Wan Professor in Biomedical Sciences and Chinese Medicine Innovation
The Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR Government has recently announced the second batch of projects selected for funding under the Research, Academic, and Industry Sectors One-plus (RAISe+) Scheme. Prof. Simon Ming-yuen LEE, the director of the PolyU-BGI Joint Research Centre for Genomics and Synthetic Biology in Global Ocean Resources, has been awarded funding support from the RAISe+ Scheme for his project “Novel Nutraceuticals for Neurodegenerative Diseases”.
This project develops novel nutraceuticals and drugs derived from natural resources for treating neurodegenerative diseases. It establishes the LifeChip technology platform, combining next-generation DNA sequencing, AI-driven discovery, advanced chemical separation, high-throughput in vivo screening, and synthetic biology. Focusing on neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, as well as neurological disorders including insomnia, depression, and anxiety, this integrated approach delivers a comprehensive solution for both prevention and treatment using innovative nutraceuticals with unique mechanisms of action. For instance, the development candidate Oxyphylla® is a first-in-class drug targeting α-synuclein, an emerging therapeutic target for Parkinson’s disease. Oxyphylla® is anticipated to become a disease-modifying therapy, offering a breakthrough in neurological health.
Inaugurated in 2023, the RAISe+ Scheme aims to provide funding, on a matching basis, for at least 100 research teams from universities funded by the University Grants Committee which demonstrate strong potential to evolve into successful startups. Each approved project will receive funding support ranging from HK$10 million to HK$100 million.
