BUSINESS WIRE; July 13, 1998
The Company said that the Phase I trials are designed to evaluate the safety of Enzo's novel therapeutic product. In addition, certain aspects of the trial will provide insight on how to formulate and deliver this medicine in the most effective manner. HGTV43, if it proves as successful in human clinical trials as has been shown in laboratory studies, could free HIV-1 infected patients from the need of other medications, some of which have debilitating side effects. Compliance with the regimen for current therapies has proven to be problematic; this new approach should avoid these problems.
At the recent World AIDS Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, Dean L. Engelhardt, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, gave a presentation that reported that in laboratory studies, the active genes cloned into HGTV43 had achieved between 92% and greater than 99% protection for human immune cells against HIV-1 infection.
"We have succeeded in developing a transducing vector that we believe is immunologically silent --- that does not produce any product that can be recognized as foreign to the body," said Dr. Engelhardt. "Furthermore, we have successfully demonstrated that we can create in the laboratory setting human immune cells that are resistant to HIV-1 and maintain that resistance to the virus over a prolonged period."
"Enzo's unique proprietary vector is expected to modify the immune cells with genetic antisense in such a manner that the cells should avoid cell destruction due to the normal surveillance properties of the body. This invention was critical for the long-term survival of the engineered cells and, therefore, is key to the effectiveness of the treatment," Dr. Engelhardt commented.
"This project represents Enzo's continuing effort in becoming a major contributor in the development of genetic medicine to treat diseases and genetic conditions that have proven to be unconquerable by conventional medical approaches," concluded Dr. Engelhardt.
Enzo Biochem is engaged in the research, development and manufacture of innovative health care products based on molecular biology and genetic engineering techniques, and in providing diagnostic services to the medical community.
Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this news release may be considered "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such statements include declarations regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company and its management. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could materially affect actual results.
--30--bh/ny*
CONTACT: Dean L. Engelhardt, Ph.D., 212/583-0100 or Steve Anreder, 212/421-4020
980713
BW980708
Copyright © 1998 - Business Wire. All rights reserved. Reproduced with permission. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the Business Wire, Permissions Desk, Business Wire, 1185 Avenue of the Americas, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10036; Tel: (212) 575-8822; FAX: (212) 575-1854. http://www.businesswire.com.
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation and donations from users like you.
Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 1998. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 1998. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .