SARASOTA, Fla., Sept. 27, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- DNAPrint(tm) genomics, Inc. (OTCBB:DNAG) today announced the completion of initial research for the production of PT-401, a more powerful version of the anemia drug Erythropoietin (EPO), which has advanced into the preclinical development stage for the Company's first pharmaceutical product.
"Our research surveyed several potential host cells for the production of PT-401," stated Hector Gomez, M.D., Ph.D., Chairman and Chief Medical Officer of DNAPrint genomics. "We have selected one that the research indicates will provide superior glycosylation, which is critical for the processing of PT-401. We anticipate that this will lead to greater therapeutic efficacy and later on will be beneficial to expediting regulatory approval. In addition, we have optimized the structure of the gene encoding PT-401, thus providing excellent production efficiency and an optimal structure/activity profile of the active compound. Our production schedule remains on target."
DNAPrint(tm) obtained an exclusive worldwide license from Harvard Medical School's Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) in February 2005 for the development of a "Super" EPO, a more potent and longer acting form of Erythropoietin (EPO), which has a worldwide market exceeding $10 billion and which is growing at an average annual rate of 21%. Production of a Super EPO dimer is central to DNAPrint's overarching strategy to utilize recent genomics and chemistry advances to develop next-generation test/drug combinations called "Theranostics," which maximize efficacy and minimize side effects by tailoring and customizing medication for specific individuals and well-defined population sectors. In June 2005, DNAPrint selected Proteos, Inc., to handle pre-clinical analysis of PT-401 and to manufacture the first batch of the new drug.
About DNAPrint genomics, Inc.
DNAPrint genomics, Inc. (www.dnaprint.com) is a developer of genomics-based products and services focused on drug development, pharmacogenomic diagnostic tests, forensics technology and consumer genetic tests. The Company's first theranostic product (drug/test combination) is PT-401, a "Super EPO" (erythropoietin) dimer protein drug for treatment of anemia in renal dialysis patients (end stage renal disease). Currently in pre-clinical development, PT-401 will be targeted to patients with a genetic profile indicating their propensity to have the best clinical response. DNAPrint's family of products for the law enforcement forensics and consumer markets include DNAWITNESS(tm), RETINOME(tm), ANCESTRYbyDNA(tm) and EURO-DNA(tm).
Forward Looking Statements
All statements in this press release that are not historical are forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, including, but not limited to, uncertainties relating to technologies, product development, manufacturing, market acceptance, cost and pricing of DNAPrint's products, dependence on collaborations and partners, regulatory approvals, competition, intellectual property of others, and patent protection and litigation. DNAPrint genomics, Inc. expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in DNAPrint's expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statements are based.