SARASOTA, Fla., April 11, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- A three-member team of leading Canadian scientists is developing a new hybrid biotechnology formula using specific proteins produced from mouse and refined by insect cells, to "trick" the human body into defending itself against anthrax, bird flu, hepatitis and many other virus born diseases. Canada's Defense Department has entered into research collaboration with ViRexx Medical (AMEX:REX) (TSX:VIR) to evaluate the company's proprietary Chimigen(tm) technology as a vaccination for anthrax.
Dr. Rajan George, the head of infectious diseases for ViRexx Medical, explained the therapeutic vaccine formula includes antibodies derived from mouse cells, which is then transformed into a new protein produced by insect cells. Dr. George and the Canadian scientific team have a high confidence level on vaccinating against the Avian Flu H5N1. They also believe that the vaccine will be useful in fighting other diseases as well.
To read Dr. Rajan George's interview introducing the Chimigen(tm) technology, please visit: www.stockinterview.com/virexx-rajangeorge.html
The Canadian scientific team is comprised of three scientists who are currently affiliated with the University of Alberta (Edmonton, Canada). ViRexx Medical Chief Executive Dr. Lorne Tyrrell was the Dean of the University's School of Medicine. Another scientist on the team, Dr. Antoine Noujaim, is Professor Emeritus of the University of Alberta. Dr. Rajan George is adjunct faculty with the Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Department of the University.
ViRexx Medical recently announced it has recruited procurement advocate Frank Rapoport of Washington-based lobby group, McKenna Long & Aldridge. Mr. Rapoport will pursue acquisitions of development contracts from the U.S. Department of Defense and NIH with a particular focus on the potential of the Chimigen(tm) technology in addressing BioDefense and pandemic threats. (http://www.mckennalong.com/)
ViRexx is an Edmonton, Alberta-based biotechnology company focused on the development of novel therapeutic products for the treatment of cancer and chronic viral infections. ViRexx's most advanced clinical programs include drug candidates for the treatment of ovarian cancer, chronic Hepatitis B & C and solid tumors.