Ambrilia Validates its Targeted Delivery Technology for Cancer in Vivo
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MONTREAL, QUEBEC, Jun 19 (MARKET WIRE) --
Ambrilia Biopharma Inc. (TSX: AMB) today reported that it demonstrated
and validated the in vivo proof-of-concept with its NGR-delivery
technology applied to a carrier containing a siRNA (small interfering
RNA). Data in animal tumor models showed efficient siRNA delivery to the
tumor tissue, internalization and suppression of a cancer-promoting gene
(oncogene). Such genes are essential to the growth of a number of tumors.
In the past years, a number of oncogenes have been suppressed with RNA
interference (RNAi), which can be achieved by siRNAs, showing the
potential for therapeutic applications in humans.
"This validation represents another significant step forward in our
strategy execution for our NGR-directed delivery technology. This latest
in vivo proof-of-concept completes our investigation process ahead of
schedule. It demonstrates the validation of our targeting peptide for
selective and efficient delivery of siRNA, or other anti-cancer agents,
thus giving us the green light to intensify our divestment efforts for
this asset," said Dr. Philippe Calais, President and CEO. "As delivery
remains a major hurdle in siRNA therapeutic developments, this versatile
technology has significant potential for any Company active in this
field, and now positions Ambrilia well for divestment".
About the NGR-Delivery Technology
Ambrilia's targeted delivery technology uses a proprietary NGR-containing
peptide coupled with a drug loaded carrier such as a liposome, a
nanoparticle, or other. When the NGR-containing peptide is coated onto a
carrier, it results in a selective delivery and internalization of that
carrier, and release of the therapeutic load (siRNA or other therapeutics
in cancer treatment) in the targeted cells. Ambrilia's NGR-containing
peptide has shown specific interactions with a receptor (APN/CD13) which
is expressed in many types of cancer cells (melanoma, renal, pancreas,
colon, prostate, gastric and thyroid). Furthermore, the carrier, coated
with the NGR-containing targeting peptide, enhances the stability of
siRNA in vivo, which could lead to improved therapeutic activity.
The Company had previously established a proof-of-concept with
doxorubicin, a cytotoxic drug used in cancer treatment, and shown its
efficient delivery in animal solid tumor models. Ambrilia aims to divest
its NGR-delivery technology by the end of 2008.
Ambrilia's strategy is to capitalize on its broad product portfolio and
original expertise in virology. During the course of 2008, execution of
the strategy aims to monetize the non-virology assets through third
parties agreements, in turn strengthening the Company's financial
position to continue building its novel pipeline of antivirals.
AMBRILIA'S FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect the
Company's current expectation regarding future events. There is a risk
that expectations and forward looking statements will not prove to be
accurate. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these
forward-looking statements as they involve risks and uncertainties, which
could make actual results differ materially from those projected herein
and depend on a number of factors including, but not limited to, changing
market conditions, successful and timely completion of clinical studies,
uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process, establishment
of corporate alliances and other risks detailed from time to time in the
Company's filings. We refer you to the Risk Factors section of the
Company's annual information form which contains a more exhaustive
analysis of the risks and uncertainties that are generally connected to
the business of the Company. Such statements are also based on various
assumptions, including the successful and timely completion of clinical
studies on Ambrilia's products demonstrating efficacy and safety for
human use, their successful commercialization within the forecasted
timelines and the attainment of the forecasted milestone payments and
other revenues. While Ambrilia anticipates that subsequent events and
developments may cause Ambrilia's views to change, Ambrilia specifically
disclaims any obligation to update these forward looking statements,
unless obligated to do so by applicable securities laws.
ABOUT AMBRILIA BIOPHARMA
Ambrilia Biopharma Inc. (TSX: AMB) is a biotechnology company focused on
the discovery and development of novel treatments for viral diseases and
cancer. The Company's strategy aims to capitalize on its broad portfolio
and original expertise in virology. Ambrilia's product portfolio is
comprised of oncology and antiviral assets, including two new
formulations of existing peptides for cancer treatment, a therapeutic
peptide for prostate cancer, a targeted delivery technology for cancer, a
HIV protease inhibitor program (exclusive worldwide rights granted to
Merck & Co., Inc.) as well as HIV integrase and entry inhibitors, HCV
entry and polymerase inhibitors and Anti-Influenza A compounds.
Ambrilia's head office, research and development and manufacturing
facilities are located in Montreal with a regional office in France.
For more information, please visit the Company's web site:
www.ambrilia.com
Contacts:
Ambrilia Biopharma Inc.
Julie M. Thibodeau, B.Sc., MBA
Director, Communications
514-751-2003 ext 235
jthibodeau@ambrilia.com / ir@ambrilia.com
www.ambrilia.com
Copyright 2008, Market Wire, All rights reserved.
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