Cell Matrix Inc. Awarded SBIR Grants for Discovery of Novel Anti-Angiogenesis Products; Potential Utility in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer.

Business Editors & Health/Medical Writers

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 10, 2001

Cell Matrix Inc. (Cell Matrix) today announced the funding of $200,000 for two Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Grants from the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health.

The grants will further Cell Matrix's target and therapeutic antibody discovery program for selective inhibitors of angiogenesis. Cell Matrix is developing antibodies that block denatured extracellular matrix proteins, a novel pathway for downstream inhibition of the angiogenesis cascade.

Cell Matrix's scientific founder, Dr. Peter C. Brooks has pioneered research into the role of extracellular matrix proteins in the angiogenesis cascade. According to Brooks, "Our research to date strongly suggests that proteolytic remodeling of the extracellular matrix exposes cryptic protein sequences that promote cellular interactions required for angiogenesis. These grants will enable discovery of novel antibodies and other antagonists, which target these cryptic protein sequences."

Angiogenesis, the process by which new blood vessels are formed, has been shown to be a direct and essential requirement for the growth and metastasis of most solid tumors including lung, breast, prostate, ovarian and colorectal cancer.

According to Carolyn Siegal, senior vice president, Cell Matrix, "Antibodies discovered under this research program have significant therapeutic potential as selective, effective inhibitors of angiogenesis. Blocking extracellular matrix proteins is Cell Matrix's proprietary approach to angiogenesis inhibition, and these grants will enable us to advance our research in this area."

Cell Matrix is a leader in drug discovery and development based on novel mechanisms of angiogenesis regulation. Cell Matrix's lead products are humanized versions of antibodies, which bind to denatured collagen type I and IV, major constituents of the extracellular matrix. Murine versions of these antibodies have been shown to be potent inhibitors of angiogenesis and tumor growth.

Cell Matrix is located in Los Angeles.