Biothera Awarded Patent for New Cancer Therapy
EAGAN, MN – January 18, 2007 – Biothera was recently awarded a patent in China for the combination of its immune-enhancing pharmaceutical technology and complement-activating antibodies to fight a wide range of cancers.
The patent is the first of many expected worldwide for the therapy, which engages the body’s immune system in unique ways to kill cancer cells. Researchers discovered that Biothera’s compound, a highly purified natural polysaccharide, directs innate immune cells called neutrophils to kill cancer cells targeted by antibodies or monoclonal antibodies. This entirely novel mechanism recruits immune cells not normally involved in the fight against cancer.
“We are confident that Biothera will achieve worldwide patent protection for this important new technology, which could significantly improve existing and future cancer treatments,” said Richard Mueller, president and chief executive officer.
Biothera is currently conducting a Phase 1b/2a clinical trial in metastatic colorectal cancer patients with its drug candidate, Imprime PGG™, and Erbitux® (Cetuximab), a monoclonal antibody manufactured by ImClone Systems, Inc. Additional clinical trials are scheduled to begin in 2008.
“Research shows that our drug compounds will work with the vast majority of monoclonal antibodies on the market or in development,” said Daniel Conners, Biothera chairman. “In animal studies, we are seeing dramatic reductions in tumor size and increased survival with this combination therapy in comparison with monoclonal antibody therapy alone.”
Biothera has patent applications for the use of its drug candidates and antibodies pending in the U.S., Europe and Asia. Biothera already has more than 40 U.S. patents and patents pending for its technologies, with additional filings in more than 20 countries.
About Biothera, the Immune Health Company
Biothera is a biotechnology company dedicated to improving immune health. The company is developing pharmaceuticals that engage the innate immune system to fight cancer. Biothera also manufactures and markets food-grade ingredients that support healthy immune function to the nutritional supplement, functional food, cosmetic and animal nutrition markets.
Contact:
David Walsh
VP, Communications
Biothera, the Immune Health Company
651-256-4606