About CanCog Technologies

CanCog Technologies is a privately owned contract research organization, founded in 2002 by Bill Milgram and Joseph Araujo, that was originally focused on development of canine models of age-dependent cognitive decline and neuropathology.

The initial rationale was to provide a sophisticated, pharmacologically predictive animal model that could be used to obtain both proof of concept screening and to identify targets (generally cognitive targets) for clinical trials. Most preclinical studies of cognitive-modifying therapeutics had previously been focused on rodent models, which have had limited predictive utility. For example, well over 100 neurotherapeutics have entered clinical trials based on preclinical studies with rodents; none of these were successful in humans.

With increased acceptance of the canine model, CanCog's growth has been dramatic. Since 2003, CanCog has increased from 3 to over 20 full-time employees, while greatly expanding our testing capabilities.

CanCog has also expanded its range of services to include several additional species (cats, rats and mice) as well as to provide models for an extensive range of neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression, Parkinson’s disease and anxiety disorders.

Because of the broad general interest in our services from the veterinary community, CanCog has also formed a veterinary division, aimed at providing both proof of concept and clinical trial development guidance for companion animal products.

CanCog's main test facility is located in Ontario, Canada (near Guelph), and contains one of the largest populations of aged beagles in the world. CanCog also has separate facilities for research with cats and rodents.

CanCog maintains an active research program aimed at improving the variety and validity of animal models suitable for preclinical assessment. CanCog's research program also extends to human cognitive assessment. CanCog has developed a battery of human neuropsychological tests modeled after tests developed for dogs. These tests are being studied as assessment tools for problematic human populations, such as Alzheimer's disease and Autistic Spectrum Disorders.