PhotoDynamic

Based in Halifax, Canada, PhotoDynamic Inc. is a life sciences and biotech company that has developed an antimicrobial platform technology activated by light. Founded in 2014, the company's core business revolves around creating health and wellness solutions for both treatment and prevention, targeting markets for over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription (Rx) products.

The company’s origin is rooted in the research of its founder and Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Sherri McFarland, a photochemistry expert. Her work investigated whether invasive plant species could be a source of therapeutic photoactive agents. This research led to the discovery of the potent antimicrobial properties of Japanese Knotweed, which became the foundation for PhotoDynamic's technology. The company was established to commercialize this novel antimicrobial platform. Ying Tam, a serial entrepreneur with experience in scaling startups, currently leads the company as CEO.

PhotoDynamic's flagship product is PhytoLight, an at-home oral hygiene system. This system is primarily aimed at orthodontic patients who often struggle with oral hygiene, leading to issues like plaque buildup and white spot lesions. The product consists of a foam, called PD Foam, made from a patented plant-based extract named PhytoQuin™, and a mouthpiece (PD Tray) equipped with LED lights. Users apply the foam to the tray, place it in their mouth, and activate the blue light for one minute. This combination of the PhytoQuin™ extract and light triggers a reaction that targets harmful microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. The technology has received a U.S. method and design patent and is licensed by both the FDA and Health Canada.

The company's business model focuses on selling its products through orthodontic practices. This strategy is bolstered by a significant investment from the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), which provides a crucial channel to the target market. As of January 2020, PhotoDynamic had raised $2.3 million in a financing round that included the AAO, Natural Products Canada, and Island Capital Partners. The company initiated a "controlled launch" of PhytoLight in late 2022, initially targeting up to 40 orthodontist practices in Canada and the U.S. to manage supply chain and manufacturing capacity.

Keywords: oral hygiene, antimicrobial platform, photodynamic therapy, orthodontics, plaque removal, PhytoLight, Japanese Knotweed extract, light-activated therapy, dental technology, biotech, life sciences, white spot lesions, gum health, medical device, Health Canada approved, FDA licensed, oral care, antimicrobial foam, LED mouthpiece, dental hygiene