VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 23, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- ProtoKinetix, Inc. (OTCBB:PKTX) is pleased to announce that the first series of antifreeze glycoprotein (AFGP) compounds synthesized with the patented technology acquired from INSA-Rouen has shown great stability in acidic media. In naturally occurring AFGP, the sugar bond is very unstable in an acidic environment. The lack of stability and the prohibitive cost of extraction and purification of natural AFGPs have restricted its potential commercialization.
Professor Quirion and Dr. Deliencourt, who are leading this project in the Rouen laboratory, have observed that our compound GCD-1 remains unchanged in concentrated acetic acid (until pH of 1.8). This is more acidic than all the media found in the human body. Dr John Todd, president and CEO of ProtoKinetix, states "This confirmation of a stable synthetic AFGP molecule will be a major asset in the future development and licensing opportunities of this family of molecules."
About ProtoKinetix:
ProtoKinetix Inc. is a scientific development company whose mission is the advancement of human health care. The Company's first entry into the commercial market place will be the launch of the first synthetically replicated antifreeze glycoprotein (AFGP). PKTX has developed a unique business model that brings together a vast pool of world recognized intellectual talent in a networked environment. This integrated scientific approach combines the disciplines of physics, chemistry and molecular biology in order to fast track product development.
The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a "safe harbor" for forward-looking statements. Some information included in this press release contains statements that are forward-looking. Such forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties that could affect anticipated results in the future and, accordingly, these results may differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of the Company. For a description of additional risks and uncertainties, please refer to the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, Dr. John Todd, President