BAAT

SINGAPORE, 12 May 2023 – By studying the unusual ability of bats to host viruses without significant illness, scientists at Duke-NUS Medical School have discovered a protein that could unlock new strategies for fighting inflammatory diseases in humans. “Bats have attracted great attention as a likely reservoir of the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Professor Wang Lin-Fa, from Duke-NUS’ Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID) Programme, the senior author of the study published in the journal Cell. “But this unique ability to host yet survive viral infections could also have a very positive impact on human health if we can understand and exploit how they achieve this.” The research is focused on multi-protein complexes called inflammasomes that are responsible for the overactive inflammation that causes serious symptoms in many diseases. Inflammasomes are also implicated in functional decline in ageing. The Duke-NUS team discovered that a bat protein called ASC2 has a powerful ability to inhibit inflammasomes, thereby limiting inflammation. “This suggests that the high-level activity of ASC2 is a key mechanism by which bats keep inflammation under control, with implications for their long lifespan and unique status as a reservoir for viruses,” explained Dr Matae Ahn, first author and co-corresponding author of the study, who is an Adjunct Research Fellow with the EID Programme and the SingHealth Duke-NUS Medicine Academic Clinical Programme. Dr Ahn is also a full-time clinician in SingHealth’s Postgraduate Year One (PGY1) Residency Programme after graduating from Duke-NUS in 2022. Ms Vivian Chen, co-first author of the study and an MD-PhD candidate in Duke-NUS, highlighted that the team was able to demonstrate the potential for exploiting the powers of the bat protein in humans by showing it could also be effective in mice*. She elaborated, “Expression of the bat protein in genetically-modified mice dampened inflammation and reduced the severity of the diseases driven by various triggers, including viruses.” Examination of the ASC2 protein in detail identified four amino acids in the molecule that were key to making the bat protein more effective at dampening inflammation than its corresponding human protein. This provides valuable insight for the development of drugs that can mimic the anti-inflammatory effect of the bat protein. The next step for the team is to investigate the potential of their findings for treating humans. Prof Wang said: “We have filed patents based on this work and are exploring commercial partnerships for drug discovery. We are hoping to develop a new class of anti-inflammatory drugs for inflammasome-driven human diseases.” Prof Wang strongly believes that it is time to focus on the more promising aspects of what makes bats special “to help fight the human diseases of the future.” Duke-NUS’ Senior Vice-Dean for Research, Professor Patrick Casey, commented on the study, “Even as COVID-19 begins to recede from the public’s attention, Professor Wang and his team continue to break new ground with their basic research into bat biology, yielding unique insights that can potentially strengthen global pandemic preparedness. This is a prime example of the immense value basic scientific research brings to solving major public health challenges.” (Concept art representing the study and its findings developed by the study team) Flying in the starry night are our nocturnal and echo-locating bats, the only mammals capable of powered flight. The fire symbolises the inflammation driven by the activation of inflammasomes—multi-protein complexes that assemble inside cells in response to danger or microbial signals. Adaption to flight (a metabolically costly process) may have driven key changes in the bat's immune system that enable it to survive viral and other diseases that would kill other mammals. Among these key changes are differences in the highly expressed protein ASC2, a potent negative regulator of inflammasomes in bats and humans. In bats, however, the ASC2 protein has naturally evolved to dampen inflammation. This insight could lead to the development of novel therapeutics against inflammatory diseases. Credit: Qi Su * All work with laboratory animals in this study fully complied with policies and guidelines for the humane care and use of laboratory animals set forth by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). Reference: Ahn, M., Chen, V.C.W., Rozario, P., Ng, W.L., et al. 2023. Bat ASC2 suppresses inflammasomes and ameliorates inflammatory diseases. Cell. 2023; 186: 2144-2159.e22. DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.03.036

VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 24, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Vice Health and Wellness Inc. (CSE: VICE) (FSE: Z24) (OTC Pink: VICFF) is excited to announce the signing of a Letter of Intent ("LOI") with Biologic Pharmamedical Research Ltd to initiate a collaborative product research and development partnership for weight-loss and obesity focused products. The purpose of the LOI is to express mutual interest in developing cutting-edge nutraceutical technology products that aim to revolutionize health categories through effective and science-based innovations. It is anticipated that this LOI will lead to the establishment of a definitive agreement outlining the specific terms, conditions, and responsibilities of both VICE and Biologic Pharmamedical. During the period of the LOI the Company has agreed to cover certain expenditures which are not to exceed $10,000. Biologic Pharmamedical Research, a trailblazer in the realm of pharmacology and natural therapeutic agents, will focus on mapping the pharmacology of natural therapeutic agents to better understand poly-pharmacology at the proteomic and genomic level. VICE is committed to enhancing people's lives by offering innovative and effective health products targeting weight-loss and obesity At the core of this partnership is THERMOGALLATE™, an exclusive and patent-pending technology fully owned by Biologic. It is a unique and ground-breaking technology that facilitates efficient fat metabolism and energy production. Unlike traditional keto-products, THERMOGALLATE™ capitalizes on the body's natural fat stores to induce ketogenesis, fostering sustainable weight management and heightened cognitive function. This technology triggers the activation of Brown Adipose Fat (BAT) and Hormone Sensitive Lipase (HSL), initiating a chain reaction that enhances fat burning and release for fuel. Through this innovative process, heat and energy are generated, reducing the reliance on physical exercise alone. The key reported benefits of THERMOGALLATE™ include: Activation of Brown Adipose Fat (BAT): Facilitates efficient fat burning. Initiation of Hormone Sensitive Lipase (HSL) Activity: Breaks down and mobilizes fat for energy. Induction of Ketogenesis: Offers an alternate brain fuel source during low-caloric intake. Enhanced Energy and Cognitive Performance: Elevates energy levels, creativity, and cognitive function. Reduced Hunger Cravings and Dietary Control: Supports appetite management and dietary adherence. The partnership will encompass the creation of products with Thermogallate™ that contribute to improved lean body mass to fat mass proportions beginning with the research and development of a Gummy Version. Biologic Pharmamedical will explore the possibilities of a gummy version of the Brown Adipose Tissue activator, catering to consumers seeking a delightful and enjoyable means of experiencing the potential health benefits of the product. The company plans to explore further uses of Thermogalallate™ in consumer health products. Biologic Pharmamedical will play a crucial role in supporting the marketing efforts for these Nutraceutical Technology products. Biologic Pharmamedical will provide scientific backing, literature, and relevant research findings to substantiate health claims associated with the products. Furthermore, Biologic Pharmamedical will assist Vice Health and Wellness in organizing digital seminars or speaking engagements to disseminate vital information about the products. In addition, Vice Health and Wellness supplements will be enriched with Glyvia™, a patented and Health Canada approved natural product. Glyvia™ presents a plant-based, zero-calorie sweetness that emulates the flavor of sugar without the commonly associated bitter aftertaste found in alternative sweeteners like stevia. This proprietary complex, composed of aminoacetic acid and plant glycosides, enhances mouthfeel, sweetness, and sweet/sour balance, delivering an appealing and satisfying sensory experience. Maciej Lis, Chief Executive Officer of Vice, stated, "The collaboration between Biologic Pharmamedical Research and Vice holds tremendous potential and aligns with our shared goals of promoting health and wellness to help consumers achieve the pursuit of optimal wellness. We are excited about the possibilities and eagerly look forward to further discussions and negotiations to formalize this partnership." Franco Cavaleri BSc PhDc, Founder and CEO of Biologic, noted, "We're thrilled to partner with VICE's like-minded team to tackle weight loss and obesity through our advanced technologies led by THERMOGALLATE™. This patented technology, dubbed the 'Natural GLP1 agonist and Brown Fat Thermogenic inducer,' aims to regulate blood glucose and activate fat metabolism. This leads to spontaneous weight management and increased energy by revitalizing the body's natural fat-utilizing systems. For further information and updates, please visit the newly updated investor website at About Biologic Pharmamedical Research Biologic Pharmamedical Research is dedicated to cutting-edge research and development in the health and wellness industry. The company focuses on mapping the pharmacology of natural therapeutic agents to engineer more reliable and efficacious outcomes for consumers. About Vice Health and Wellness Inc. Vice Health and Wellness Inc. is a dynamic publicly traded company dedicated to fostering healthier lifestyle choices by offering a diverse range of products that empower consumers to enhance their mental and physical well-being. As an ever-growing community of like-minded individuals and organizations, we believe in the power of collective small steps leading to remarkable transformations. Our product line features low-sugar, plant-based gummy products, and we are actively spearheading innovations in alignment with emerging trends in the health and wellness sector. By prioritizing weight loss and harnessing the potential of AI-powered health and wellness applications, which leverage state-of-the-art artificial intelligence algorithms, we aim to provide individuals with unparalleled advice, personalized recommendations, unwavering support, and transformative solutions on their journey to ultimate well-being. Our exceptional applications intend to offer a multitude of treatment benefits, empowering users to embark on a transformative path toward optimal health. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward Looking Statements Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint- ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. 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Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward- looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws. SOURCE Vice Health And Wellness Inc.