ShearFlow is a joint venture between University of Newcastle & Harvard, spinning out in Q2 2025. Nanonitrate is a nanoparticle vasodilator, delivered directly to the collateral vessels in ischaemic stroke. Nanonitrate increases perfusion to brain tissue and reduces cell death.
We discovered that high velocity blood flow in collateral vessels during ischemic stroke increases a frictional force known as shear-stress. We developed a Shear-Targeted drug delivery system containing the potent vasodilator nitroglycerin, that only releases the drug in areas of high shear stress (i.e. selectively targets the collateral vessels). This demonstrated extensive POC data in animal models, including selective, rapid and significant improvements in collateral blood flow and stroke outcomes. This discovery is the first indication for collateral blood flow enhancement in ischaemic stroke.
ShearFlow is positioned to transform stroke treatment by saving brain tissue, improving function, with economic health benefits in recovery.