Lexaria Bioscience announces the start of laboratory work under its collaborative research program with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), following the completion of preparation initiatives announced on March 14, 2017.

As earlier reported, several studies will be initiated in the coming months designed to optimize Lexaria's patented technology enabling delivery of lipophilic active agents within foods, beverages, capsules and other ingestible formats. These studies will investigate lipophilic active agent classes including cannabinoids, vitamins, NSAIDs and nicotine.

Advanced analytical techniques including mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance testing will be used to evaluate the chemical nature of the molecular association that Lexaria's technology is believed to form between lipophilic active agents and the flavor and delivery enabling fatty acid agents that are integral to Lexaria's formulation methodologies. Practical applications of this work could include further broadening or strengthening of Lexaria's intellectual property portfolio and may also provide the foundation for new commercial arrangements.

"We are delighted to have commenced formulation development and characterization work together with the NRC," stated John Docherty, president of Lexaria Bioscience. "The NRC team has extensive knowledge and experience in the field of lipid based delivery systems relating to pharmaceutical products, natural health products and functional foods. This collaboration will significantly assist Lexaria in further developing and characterizing its IP portfolio."

Additional information will be released upon completion and interpretation of test results.