BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI--(Marketwire - Apr 12, 2012) - Arizona-based algae producer Health Enhancement Products (
Dr. Gerwick's current research focuses on the discovery of bioactive molecules with potential anticancer, antibacterial, neurotoxic, antiviral, or anti-inflammatory activity from marine organisms, such as algae. The pathways by which these complex molecules are assembled form the basis of Dr. Gerwick's research, using stable isotope tracer methods and NMR analysis. Many marine algae produce prostaglandin and leukotriene analogs that are strikingly similar to substances produced in the human body, and that have therapeutic value as potential pharmacological agents.
Dr. Gerwick joins an interdisciplinary team that includes scientists from Battelle, the world's largest independent research & development organization. Battelle has recently concluded an in vivo study on behalf of the Company to isolate bioactive test samples. Those samples were derived from a year-long experimentation with fractionation and isolation of potentially active compounds derived from the Company's proprietary algae culture. Dr. Gerwick has been invited to analyze samples that exhibit bioactivity.
Equally significant is an agreement on terms with Dr. Kenneth I. Kohn, patent counsel for Health Enhancement Products, to develop and manage the Company's intellectual property portfolio on a contingent basis. Dr. Kohn holds a Ph.D. in Pharmacology and Immunology, and provides patent counsel to corporations, universities, research institutes, investors and individuals worldwide. Dr. Kohn prosecutes patent applications in the fields of pharmacology, medicine, chemistry and biotechnology. He also negotiates international licensing agreements and manages intellectual property portfolios for corporate and university clients globally. Dr. Kohn is recognized for his work in patenting Lyrica, a successful anti-inflammatory and anti-seizure therapeutic presently owned by Pfizer.
"It's a great opportunity to get more deeply involved with the development and commercialization of something that can possibly reframe the entire perspective on achieving healthy cholesterol balance," states Dr. Kohn.
Philip M. Rice II, Chief Financial Officer, is heartened by the progress made to date. "We're making steady strides on a wide range of issues," states Mr. Rice. "And, we're looking forward to releasing additional information over the next few weeks."
About Health Enhancement Products, Inc.
Health Enhancement Products, Inc. (
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Except for any historical information, the matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ from those indicated in the forward-looking statements, including the timing of completion of a trial, actual future clinical trial results being different than the results the company has obtained to date, and the company's ability to secure funding. Such statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Readers are cautioned that such statements are not guarantees of future performance and those actual results or developments may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or otherwise.