Boston Scientific announces issuance of key gene therapy patent for angiogenesis.

Boston Scientific Corporation (Natick, MA; 508-650-8450) announced the issuance and publication of a re-examination certificate for United States Patent 5,661,133 entitled Collateral Blood Vessel Formation by Injecting a DNA Sequence Encoding an Angiogenic Protein. The patent provides fundamental claims to the injection of angiogenic genes into the myocardium for inducing new blood vessel formation in the heart. Dr. Arthur Rosenthal, senior vice president and chief development officer, said, "We are thrilled to have strengthened our extensive patent portfolio and leadership position in the field of gene therapy for cardiovascular diseases. The use of genes to stimulate the process of angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels) is believed to be a promising technology to treat myocardial ischemia and congestive heart failure."

Dr. Jeffrey Leiden, director, laboratory of cardiovascular biology, Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease at Harvard University (Cambridge, MA) and one of the patent's inventors, noted, "I am pleased to be recognized for this fundamental scientific contribution to the field of gene therapy. Boston Scientific is a leader in developing the emerging technologies of gene therapy and drug delivery, which could prove to be the next generation of treatments for cardiovascular diseases." Dr. Leiden also pointed to the preliminary clinical data, saying, "The data coming out of the early clinical trials is giving us reason to believe this technology may one day provide a whole new set of options in treating cardiovascular disease."

Jim Tobin, chief executive officer of Boston Scientific, stated, "Recognition by the United States Patent and Trademark Office of the strength of these claims validates our investments, including the acquisition of CardioGene Therapeutics, in this emerging field and enables us to continue to grow our proprietary position in the area of gene therapy." Rights to Dr. Leiden's patent on direct injection of genes into the myocardium is part of CardioGene Therapeutics' patent portfolio which Boston Scientific acquired in 1998.

Dr. Rosenthal went on to say, "We hope to be in clinical trials with a novel minimally invasive myocardial gene delivery device by the end of this year."

Boston Scientific is a worldwide developer, manufacturer and marketer of medical devices whose products are used in a broad range of interventional medical specialties. Boston Scientific and its divisions are dedicated to improving the quality of patient care and the productivity of healthcare delivery through the development and advocacy of less invasive medical devices and procedures.