FreeStride finishes clinical trial to explore veterinary applications for pain and arthritis drug

FreeStride Therapeutics is getting ready to hit its stride next year after it finishes laying the groundwork for what could turn out to be a long run in drug development.The Ann Arbor-based company, which is repurposing a human drug for veterinary purposes, has completed its first clinical trial and is raising seed capital to complete development. The  start-up expects to raise $3.5-$4 million by year-end so it can seek FDA approval within three years. Thus far the Michigan Pre-Seed Capital Fund has provided funding for the founders to continue their research.”It’s all lab time,” says Michael Long, who co-founded the three-person company a year-and-a half ago with David Olson and Noura Bashshur. “It’s all about clinical trials and horses.”FreeStride Therapeutics is working with Ohio State University to create a drug that relieves and even prevents shin pain for racing horses. It even has implications for companion animals, like dogs and cats, suffering from arthritis.Source: Michael Long, co-founder and COO of FreeStride TherapeuticsWriter: Jon Zemke