Biotech encouraged by trial results. (Media & Technology).Advanced Biotherapy biotherapy /bio·ther·a·py/ (-ther´ah-pe) biological therapy. bi·o·ther·a·py n. Treatment of disease with biologicals, such as vaccines. Inc., of Woodland Hills, said early results of clinical test trials of its new treatment using antibodies to gamma interferon have shown it can halt the body's rejection of corneal transplant corneal transplant Ophthalmology The replacement of a damaged cornea with a cadaveric–healthy donor cornea; CTs are indicated in severe corneal injury or for corneal ulcers with residual scarring on eye patients. Dr. Simon Skurkovich, vice president of research and development for the company, said the treatment on 13 patients who were experiencing rejection of their transplanted corneas showed that all but three had improved their visual acuity visual acuity n. Sharpness of vision, especially as tested with a Snellen chart. Normal visual acuity based on the Snellen chart is 20/20. Visual acuity The ability to distinguish details and shapes of objects. without signs of rejection. "These encouraging results open the door to treating, in my view, rejection of other transplanted organs and tissue, including bone marrow... using antibodies to gamma interferon," Skurkovich said. Company CEO (1) (Chief Executive Officer) The highest individual in command of an organization. Typically the president of the company, the CEO reports to the Chairman of the Board. Edmond Buccellato said the study gives hope to corneal transplant patients who experience organ rejection. According to studies, about 10 percent of 50,000 corneal transplants conducted in the U.S. are rejected. Although more studies are needed over the next few years, Buccellato said he was encouraged by these results. The three-year-old company has no products, but it is researching and developing therapies in the treatment of autoimmune diseases Autoimmune diseases A group of diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, in which immune cells turn on the body, attacking various tissues and organs. Mentioned in: Complement Deficiencies, Premature Menopause in humans such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis rheumatoid arthritis Chronic, progressive autoimmune disease causing connective-tissue inflammation, mostly in synovial joints. It can occur at any age, is more common in women, and has an unpredictable course. . With a market cap of $14.9 million and no revenue, the company reported a net loss of $176,203 for the quarter ending March 31. Its stock is listed on Nasdaq's bulletin board, with a value last week hovering around the 35-cent mark. The stock was last valued over $1 in February 2000. It's 52-week high was 65 cents and its 52-week low was 16 cents. Business Journal reporter Carlos Martinez may be reached at (818) 676-1750 ext. 17 or by e-mail at cmartinez@sfvbj.com. |
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