Bles Biochemicals Inc.

Bles Biochemicals Inc.

In the early 1970s, Dr. Fred Possmayer, a researcher at The University of Western Ontario in London, Canada, pioneered a method for collecting surfactant using intact lung lavage. This process reduced impurities and maintained the natural balance of surfactant-associated proteins B and C, resulting in a highly effective surfactant. Collaborating with Dr. David Bjarneson and Dr. Harold Nigh, they set out to produce a surfactant that could save the lives of premature babies and, eventually, help infants worldwide. This commitment led to the formation of BLES Biochemicals Inc., a privately owned company dedicated to producing top-quality surfactant.

The first infant received BLES in 1983 during a safety trial by Dr. JA Smyth. The low-viscosity, high-dose surfactant quickly proved its life-saving potential for infants with neonatal respiratory distress syndrome. Over the following years, extensive trials were conducted, including a Phase III trial in 1992 where BLES was compared with Exosurf , the only other approved Canadian surfactant at the time. Additional studies in Hong Kong showed BLES outperformed alternative products, solidifying its reputation in the medical community. To date, over 9,000 patients have participated in clinical trials for BLES .

In the early 2000s, BLES Biochemicals partnered with Cipla in India, introducing BLES under the brand Neosurf. Within a year, Neosurf gained market authorization and quickly became the leading surfactant in India.

With more than 160,000 patients treated globally, BLES has transformed from a university lab discovery into a world-class surfactant. Recognized by The Council of Ontario Universities as one of Ontario s top five university discoveries, alongside insulin, BLES continues to impact infant care worldwide. The team at BLES Biochemicals remains dedicated to manufacturing an exceptional drug, prioritizing the health and happiness of patients and families globally.