[Licensing negotiation in progress]

[Invitation for Expression of Interest- Deadline: 12 October 2019]

We are inviting expressions of interest (EoI) for commercializing “A Catalogue of Chinese-relevant Genetic Markers for Diabetes” technology.  The innovation is developed by Professor Chung Ngor Juliana CHAN, Professor of Department of Medicine & Therapeutics of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK Reference: 01/MED/072).

The Technology

The present invention identifies and describes several genes that may account for at least 14% of young onset diabetes in Chinese.  These include novel mutations in the glucokinase and hepatocyte nuclear factor-1 genes, as well as known mutations in the amylin gene and mitochondrial DNA.  This catalogue of genetic markers can be used as a diagnostic tool to identify subjects predisposed to diabetes.

Commercialization

The technology is now available for licensing on an exclusive basis.  In order to fully realize the benefit of the technology, we expect substantial investment is necessary to enable further research and development.  In addition to the financial commitment, the licensee is expected to have the appropriate expertise as well as plans in marketing and strategizing the end product to ensure successful transfer of the technology to the society.  Previous or existing business involvement and experience in this area is a plus.

This invitation of expression of interest is without prejudice.  We also stress that this invitation is not a tender, and the University is not bound to accept any offer, or to accept the highest monetary offer, as there are additional considerations (such as the widest possible benefit to the community) that we, as a public institution, will need to take into consideration.