A law school graduate with a background in hemp farming, Akeem Gardner founded Canurta Therapeutics in 2021 to extract rare flavonoids in the cannabis plant. After demonstrating potent inhibition of cytokines in preclinical trials, Canurta is about to launch its first human trial of CNR-401 for people with motor neuron disease. Canurta is also overseeing preclinical trials of CNR-101 to assess its potential in treating chronic inflammation conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile arthritis.

Thanks to Akeem’s unique business and regulatory acumen, along with Canurta’s driven team and worldwide scientific advisors, the company has raised almost $13 million and secured 23 patents – raising hopes for new mechanisms of action with novel polyphenols.