Press Release:
CYTOCHROMA’S VITAMIN D ANALOG
SHOWS PROMISING RESULTS
IN MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS MODEL
Markham, Ontario, Canada — June
7, 2006 — Cytochroma
Inc. today announced positive results of one of
its lead compounds in a multiple sclerosis disease model
(the Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis or EAE model).
The study showed that CTA012, a proprietary vitamin D analog,
was found to reduce the overall severity of the disease.
In addition, CTA012 was well tolerated and more efficacious
than the natural bioactive form of vitamin D. Details of
the study were recently presented in Victoria, British Columbia
at the 13th Vitamin D Workshop.
"There is a growing body of
evidence that suggests vitamin D exerts a protective effect
in multiple sclerosis both in the development of the disease
and in limiting its progression.” stated Martin Petkovich,
Cytochroma’s CSO. “By
using our novel vitamin D analogs, we believe we have the
potential to give multiple sclerosis patients a safe means
to control their disease symptoms.”
In the EAE model, CTA012
was able to exhibit dose-dependant suppression of clinical
signs as well as key proinflammatory markers such as gamma-interferon
secretion and immune cell infiltration of the central nervous
system (CNS). Cytochroma plans to further investigate this
novel vitamin D analog in determining its suitability to treat
multiple sclerosis.
About CTA012
CTA012 is a novel vitamin D analog
with a dual mechanism of action. It is a strong activator
of the vitamin D signaling pathway and also a potent inhibitor
of CYP24 activity (the enzyme responsible for the breakdown
of vitamin D). CTA012 was specifically designed by Prof. Gary
H. Posner and is protected under patents and patent applications
exclusively licensed to Cytochroma Inc. from the Johns Hopkins
University. Cytochroma Inc. – Next Generation Drugs Combining
Superior Safety With Efficacy 2
About Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis
(MS) is a chronic disease of the CNS. MS is a progressive,
often disabling disease in which the immune system is believed
to attack the myelin covering the nerves resulting
in disruption of signals sent and received by the CNS. Symptoms
of MS include vision or dexterity problems, numbness
or tingling sensations which may increase in severity
to eventually include a partial or complete loss of vision
or mobility. Current treatments have serious side effects and
some carry significant risks. There is no cure for multiple
sclerosis.
About Cytochroma Inc.
Cytochroma Inc. is a
specialty drug development company targeting hyperproliferative
disorders, autoimmune diseases and chronic kidney disease.
The company
is currently focused on developing and commercializing innovative
vitamin D analogs and is in or about to enter
clinical trials in psoriasis, secondary hyperparathyroidism,
autoimmune disorders and cancer. For more information,
please visit www.cytochroma.com.
For information
contact:
Sheldon Kawarsky, Ph.D.
Director, Business Development
Cytochroma Inc.
330 Cochrane Drive
Markham, Ontario L3R 8E4
CANADA
Phone: (905) 479-5306 ext. 337
Fax: (905) 479-1287
sheldon.kawarsky@cytochroma.com
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