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First Ever Therapy Targets Optic Nerve Head for Glaucoma |
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11 Sep 2007 |
Resverlogix Corp. is pleased to announce positive results from preliminary proof-of-concept studies for Resverlogix’s TGF-Beta
CALGARY, Canada | September 10, 2007 | Resverlogix Corp. (“Resverlogix”) (TSX:RVX) is pleased to announce positive results from preliminary proof-of-concept studies for Resverlogix’s TGF-Beta
Shieldas a potential new therapy for the treatment of glaucoma.
The outside lead investigator for these studies, Dr. Maria Francesca Cordeiro, from the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology (IoO), stated, “We have data from an animal model that could lead to a novel therapy targeted against cells found at the back of the eye, for the treatment of glaucoma. We are very excited about our findings with Resverlogix’s TGF-Beta Shield technology.”
Resverlogix, through its sponsored research agreement is focused on the development of a therapeutic approach to modulate the deleterious effects of Transforming Growth Factor-Beta (TGF-Beta) in glaucomatous eyes, as well as in other fibrotic and ophthalmic conditions.
Donald McCaffrey, President & CEO of Resverlogix, stated, “We are elated with these promising results for our TGF-Beta Shield product. In separate studies we have been able to confirm method of delivery to the back of the eye which is notoriously difficult.” McCaffrey added, “In addition we have seen evidence that our drug is able to specifically target important nerve cells believed to play a role in the development of glaucoma. We believe that we may have a new class of drug treatment for glaucoma.”
Dr. Cordeiro’s group at the IoO has an international reputation in the field of glaucoma research, and has been awarded the 2005 Lewis Rudin Prize for the best research paper published worldwide in 2004. As a Consultant Ophthalmologist at The Western Eye Hospital, London, she specializes in treating patients with glaucoma. The collective knowledge, know-how and expertise at the IoO will aid in the development of the TGF-Beta Shield program.
Globally glaucoma affects 67 million people 10 percent of which suffer from bilateral blindness. Glaucoma is characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP), progressive optic nerve damage and visual field loss leading to blindness. Current treatments aim at lowering the IOP, but vision loss can still occur despite good IOP control. There is a clear need therefore in glaucoma for non-IOP lowering strategies. Recent findings have demonstrated a role for TGF-Beta in the progression of this devastating disease.
About Resverlogix Corp.
Resverlogix Corp. is a leading biotechnology company engaged in the development of novel therapies for important global medical markets with significant unmet needs. The NexVas™ program is the Company’s primary focus which is to develop novel small molecules that enhance ApoA-l. These vital therapies address the grievous burden of atherosclerosis and other important diseases such as acute coronary syndrome, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and other vascular disorders. The Company’s secondary focus is TGF-Beta Shield™, a program that aims to address burgeoning grievous diseases, such as cancer and fibrosis. Resverlogix Corp. trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX:RVX). For further information please visit www.resverlogix.com.
SOURCE: RESVERLOGIX CORP.
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