Demeter BioTechnologies, Ltd. Awarded U.S. Patent for Treatment of Pulmonary Diseases
10:58 a.m. Jun 04, 1998 Eastern

DURHAM, N.C., June 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Demeter BioTechnologies, Ltd. (OTC Bulletin Board: DBOT) announces that it was granted a United States patent entitled "Method of Treating Pulmonary Disease States with Non- Naturally Occurring Amphipathic Peptides".

The Peptidyl MIMs(TM) encompassed by the claims of this patent were invented by Dr. Jesse M. Jaynes, Demeter's Vice President of Research. The claims are directed to methods of treating pulmonary diseases with Demeter's proprietary non-naturally occurring amphipathic peptides. The pulmonary diseases include: bronchopulmonary microbial infections, bronchopulmonay viral infections, pneumonia, cystic fibrosis (CF), neoplasias and bronchogenic cancers.

Demeter Peptidyl MIMs(TM) have demonstrated efficacy in vitro against numerous clinical isolates of multi-drug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). These pulmonary related pathogens are the causative agents for many common respiratory diseases. Multi-drug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates are the most important pathogens affecting CF patients, and are virtually resistant to any of the commonly used antibiotics.

CF is the most common fatal genetic disease in the United States today. It occurs in approximately one of every 3,300 live births. In persons affected with CF, the normal mucus secreted in the respiratory system becomes abnormally thick, and accumulates in the lungs, plugging the bronchi and causing chronic respiratory infections which can induce significant pulmonary injury and death. Select Peptidyl MIMs(TM), in in vitro experiments, have induced a chloride secretory current in human airway cells, suggesting that Peptidyl MIMs(TM) may promote the clearing of excess mucus from the lungs.

Richard D. Ekstrom, President of Demeter, stated "Demeter is pleased to announce being awarded a U.S. patent for our pulmonary applications. Peptidyl MIMs(TM) offer the potential to kill the multi-drug resistant bacteria which effect pulmonary and CF patients, while simultaneously increasing mucociliary clearance for CF patients. We will seek a pharmaceutical partner to co- develop this medical application of Demeter's technology". Demeter emphasized that considerable pre-clinical testing will need to be completed before human trials could be initiated.

The Demeter patent also has claims allowed for using the Demeter compounds in treating types of cancers that effect the pulmonary area, including treatment of lung cancer. In testing by the National Cancer Institute, Demeter Peptidyl MIMs(TM) have demonstrated efficacy in killing lung cancer in vitro. In animal models, Demeter has demonstrated the efficacy of its Peptidyl MIMs(TM) in significantly reducing primary tumors and lung metastasis, when administered by sub-cutaneous injection.

Demeter BioTechnologies, Ltd. is a research company which designs and develops novel synthetic molecules for anti-infective and anti-cancer applications. Its unique peptide molecules have structures based on principles discovered in naturally occurring peptides, but have greater potency with reduced toxicity. The company is currently working on applications for treatment of prostate cancer and for the prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. The Company already has licensed a number of non-pharmaceutical applications to Mycogen Corporation, majority owned by Dow Chemical.

This press release includes forward looking statements which reflect management's current views as to the Company's scientific results, collaborative arrangements, product developments, and other future events and operations. There are considerable risks and challenges to be overcome before a product is commercially viable and regulatory approval obtained. Other companies may develop competing technologies and there is no assurance that the Company's patent position is adequate. Actual results may differ materially from these forward looking statements. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward looking statements.

For more information, contact Richard D. Ekstrom at Demeter BioTechnologies, Ltd. at (919) 682-7181 or Michael Derrick of Progressive Media Group, Inc. at (800) 262-9798. SOURCE Demeter BioTechnologies, Ltd.

Copyright 1998, PR Newswire

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