Humans of RHSE: Meet Marc Shenouda from Neuropeutics

The recent passing of Grammy-winning singer Roberta Flack brings to light the urgent need for advances in research on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and fatal neurological disease affecting communication between neurons and muscles, leading to paralysis and death. Marc Shenouda, an ALS researcher and postdoctoral fellow at the Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, aims to bridge the gap between lab research and effective treatments by commercializing his findings.

Shenouda's journey into neurodegenerative disease research began during his undergraduate studies, where his fascination with human health led him to join a research lab. His interest deepened as he encountered the harsh realities faced by patients diagnosed with neurological conditions, particularly the phrase "diagnose and adios," which reflects the bleak prospects for those with neurodegenerative diseases. Personal experiences with family members and friends suffering from conditions like Alzheimer’s fueled his commitment to improving management and treatment options for such debilitating ailments. The emotional toll on families and patients motivated him to contribute to research that could change this narrative.

Despite the inevitable challenges and setbacks that come with research, Shenouda finds motivation in interacting with ALS patients during advocacy events. Hearing their stories and witnessing their resilience reinforces the significance of his work, transforming mundane tasks into meaningful efforts towards tangible outcomes. This connection keeps him driven, even during challenging periods in the research process.

The idea of commercializing ALS research took shape when Shenouda and his advisor, Professor Janice Robertson, identified a potential new therapy towards the end of his doctoral studies. Understanding that scientific breakthroughs must transition from laboratory settings to real-world applications, he founded Neuropeutics. As CEO, he seeks to secure necessary funding, regulatory approvals, and industry partnerships that can facilitate this transition.

Shenouda describes the relationship between academic research and commercialization as mutually beneficial. While academic research generates essential knowledge and drives innovations in understanding diseases, commercialization applies those findings to create viable patient treatments. Collaborating with industry partners can ensure that breakthroughs developed in academic settings find their way into real-world applications.

His experiences in academia and the start-up world have significantly shaped his perspective on science and research. Initially, he viewed scientific inquiry as a search for answers to specific questions. However, through his PhD and entrepreneurial endeavors, he has learned to appreciate the iterative nature of research and the importance of focusing on translating discoveries into practical solutions for patient care. He recognizes the need for collaboration across disciplines, balancing innovative ideas with practical development, regulatory navigation, and securing funding.

Looking ahead, Shenouda expresses excitement about the potential to translate his research into therapies capable of improving the lives of patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases like ALS. The prospect that his work could lead to real treatments providing hope for patients and their families is a primary motivator in his ongoing quest for meaningful contributions to the field. His journey epitomizes the critical intersection of scientific research and commercialization in the pursuit of groundbreaking medical advancements.